Experience the Future of Retro: The Stellar BMW Z4 Carbon Body Revival
It's impossible to mention the golden age of roadsters without bringing up the legendary BMW 507. Immortalized by the legendary Elvis Presley, the 507 emerged in the late 1950s as a symbol of elegance and performance. Fast forward to today, and German coachbuilder Estella Fahrzeugtechnik has breathed new life into this icon with their unique take on the Z4 M40i, channeling the nostalgia of the classic 507.
Craftsmanship Brought to Life in Carbon Fiber
Estella Fahrzeugtechnik collaborated with ds-Fasertechnik GmbH to create a body entirely crafted from carbon fiber. This meticulous detail isn't just for show; it's a tribute to the timeless design of the 507. To maintain exclusivity, only 15 units of this bespoke creation will be produced, each in a unique color. While it's unfortunate for collectors that the violet and white variants are already spoken for, it adds to the allure of the remaining units.
A Performance Beast Beneath the Classic Aesthetics
The Z4 M40i reimagined by Estella Fahrzeugtechnik is not just about looks. Named the “Tender 5.7,” this beast features an upgraded B58 engine—a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six now delivering an exhilarating 492 horsepower. This power upgrade marks an impressive increase of 157 hp for the European model and 110 hp for the US counterpart. With torque ramping up to a staggering 700 Nm (516 lb-ft), it's clear that the performance matches the stunning design.
With this enhanced power, the Tender 5.7 leaps from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.7 seconds, boasting an electronically limited top speed of 168 mph (270 km/h). Even more astonishing is its weight. By exclusively using carbon fiber for the body, the car sheds 92 kilograms (203 pounds) off its standard Z4 M40i origins, tipping the scales at a nimble 1,473 kilograms (3,247 pounds).
Enhanced Dynamics for the Ultimate Drive
Performance enhancements extend beyond the engine. The Tender 5.7 features a KW DCC coilover suspension to perfectly balance comfort and dynamic handling. A stainless steel exhaust with flap control adds auditory excitement, while upgraded brakes ensure stopping power matches the added speed. The extravagant styling continues with 20-inch ALPINA wheels and a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic engine cover, ensuring this car is as sleek as it is fast.
Interior Excellence and Stellar Exclusivity
Attention to detail continues within the cabin. Estella Fahrzeugtechnik ensures each vehicle's interior complements its exterior, boasting luxurious leather trims in the cargo compartment and CFRP (carbon fiber-reinforced plastic) door sill trims. These elements not only enhance luxury but also contribute to the overall weight savings.
However, excellence comes at a price. Owning one of these exclusive pieces of art will set you back €288,000—a substantial leap from the €69,300 price tag of a stock Z4 M40i in Germany. Then again, exclusivity and innovation often demand a premium.