BMW revives Z8 as flagship V8 GT

Concepthints at plush 8 Series replacement and has BMW's most powerful” engine

- GREG KABLE

The radical new BMW Concept Skytop, unveiled at the Villa d'Este Concours d'Elegance, previews styling and packaging ideas for a luxurious twoseat GT in the mould of the legendary Z8 - complete with a petrol V8 engine.

The upmarket open-top, which features a removable Targa-style roof and an integral roll-over hoop, is described as a one-off design exercise but appears relatively close to being showroom-ready, and BMW suggests it could make production pending a positive reception.

"The BMW Concept Skytop is a unique and exotic design," said BMW design boss Adrian van Hooydonk. "It offers a combination of dynamics and elegance at the highest level, comparable to its ancestors, like the BMW Z8 or BMW 503." The Villa d'Este concours, inaugurated in 1929 and held annually on the shores of Lake Como in Italy, is a celebration of some of the most luxurious and flamboyant cars ever made.

This spirit is reflected in the design of the Concept Skytop, which apes classic BMW grand tourer proportions, with a long probing bonnet, a cabin set well back within a long wheelbase and a boot that slopes down subtly at the rear.

But while there is tradition in the shape, much of the two-seater's design is very much rooted in the present, such as the smooth surfacing, elegant lines, advanced lighting, brushed aluminium highlights and overall detailing.

A heavily tapered kidney grille with two separate illuminated elements and horizontal louvres give the front end a pointed profile that is reminiscent of the brand's old 'shark-nose' visage. Ultrathin LED headlights and huge vents in the bonnet enhance the aggressive, sporting look.