When BMW unveiled its Skytop concept car at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy earlier this year, design boss Adrian van Hooydonk made it clear that, if there was sufficient demand, it could follow the 3.0 CSL into limited production.
BMW says it got a “rapturous response” to the show car and that “all examples of the BMW Skytop reserved for enthusiasts and collectors found their future owners within a very short space of time.”
Production will be limited to 50 cars, just like the 3.0 CSL and, although the price has not been revealed, it’s believed to top €500,000. The Skytop is a tribute to BMW’s best roadsters with clear visual references to the 507 and Z8 in its design, yet there’s state-of-the-stuff in the mix as well, from aerodynamic winglets that replaced conventional door handles to the illuminated grille and slimmest possible headlights.
The roof is a throwback to old school targas, with two removable panels which can be tucked away in the trunk and a retractable rear window. Brown leather is the material of choice for the interior, accented with brogue-like detailing and there’s a smattering of crystal in the cabin for a bit of extra bling. Any wind noise will be drowned out by the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound audio system.
More mechanical music comes from the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine which, at 617bhp, is the most powerful BMW has in its arsenal. Drive goes to all four wheels via xDrive and an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. 0-62mph takes a scant 3.3 seconds.
“The BMW Skytop is a truly exotic design and offers a combination of driving dynamics and elegance at the highest level,” says van Hooydonk. “To finally be able to announce that this car will be built is like a dream come true. Thank you for the very positive response around the globe and to the passionate team that worked on the project.”
