BMW’s simply named Z1 arrived in showrooms at the same time as Mazda’s equally simply named MX5 but that is where the similarities ended. With its straight six engine, sophisticated suspension and those jaw-dropping disappearing doors, the BMW never intended it to be a straight fight.
The Z1 may be known for its lightweight fibreglass bodywork and those incredible doors but enthusiasts also appreciate it as a highly capable sports car. After all, it features the superb M20 2.5litre straight six, one of the firm’s finest achievements, and was an early adopter of BMW’s clever multi-link rear suspension that transformed the driving experience of all its cars in subsequent years.
This 1990 Z1 was built in September 1989 and first registered in the UK in May 1990. Finished in popular green metallic it is in excellent order thanks to low mileage and a long term owner. The history file is similarly impressive and includes FSH. Recent work includes a service, clutch slave cylinder and cambelt in December 2023. The MOT runs to April 2024 with no advisories.
Rare and rewarding, perhaps now is the time to grab yourself one of BMW’s most distinctive and unusual two seaters.
The History and Paperwork
First UK registered on 10th May 1990
Factory built on 29th September 1989 and in factory-correct trim
Five registered keepers from first UK registration
Current registered keeper since 6th September 2007
Factory handbook and service book included
Appears to have been first registered for road use in UK as has English language manuals
Thick history file as shown in photographs
Full service history with nine stamps to 11th September 2023
Speedometer changed at 37,612 miles as confirmed by BMW Sytner correspondence
This correspondence is dated 19th April 2002
We have used a mileage reading that takes this change into account
Clutch slave cylinder replaced on 19th December 2023
Service and timing belt replaced on 11th December 2023
Seats recoloured and refitted in April 2007
Evidence of regular cambelt changes in service book
One of only 8,000 cars built of which most were sold on the home market
MOT to 5th April 2024 with no advisories
Impressive MOT history with few advisories and which confirms mileage
The Condition
Factory finished in ‘grun’ metallic, one of the most popular colours for Z1s
Remarkable disappearing doors which are in full working order
Factory standard car inside and out
FIbreglass bodywork well kept with good paintwork and only light minor marks visible
These include a small scuff to the offside front bumper corner
Six spoke 16in factory alloy wheels in good order with only light kerbing
Quality Toyo Proxes fitted all round in good condition with plenty of tread
Very original car including Sytner dealer plates
Black fabric roof in good order and working correctly with clear screen
No structural advisories on current or recent MOT
Space saver spare wheel with cover
Well kept cabin with factory fitted sports seats in cream leather with fabric trim
Seats an older retrim in good order
Only loose fabric to passenger seat base to note
Factory supplied without a radio and now fitted with Pioneer Bluetooth unit
Pioneer speakers discreetly fitted to rear bulkhead
Recent service, cambelts and clutch slave cylinder
Thick history file
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
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More about buying with us
1990 BMW Z1
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