1989 BMW Z1

KEY FACTS

• This BMW Z1 is a rare and iconic roadster, presented in a handsome factory colour scheme and with a well-documented history.
• It is powered by a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated inline-six engine, driving the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
• First registered in 1989, this UK-delivered example was acquired by the seller and the third owner in May 1990.
• The odometer indicates 6,728 miles, though this is not warranted due to a documented odometer change at 12,099 miles. The total mileage is therefore understood to be 18,827 miles.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• This Z1 is finished in Ur-Grün Metallic over a grey leather-trimmed interior, complete with camouflage-design seat centres.
• It rides on a set of 16-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels fitted with Pirelli P7000 tyres.
• Equipment includes its distinctive retractable doors, a three-spoke steering wheel, a Z1-branded cassette stereo, and heater and ventilation controls.
• Accompanying the car are the original clocks, the owner's handbook, a toolkit, a warning triangle, a first aid kit, a spare wheel, a large folder with invoices and paperwork, and two keys with one remote fob.

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• Specific notes from the seller include: a scratch on the bonnet, a small crack on the offside front wing where it meets the bonnet (age-related GRP, not damage), a small crack on the offside rear quarter due to age-related stress to GRP panels (not impact or damage), a distorted front splitter (age-related), a small scrape on the offside rear bumper corner, road rash patina on the rear lower arches, external corrosion on the exhaust silencer, rubbing marks on the painted seat backs where they made contact with the bulkhead, age-related cracking on the leather seat inserts, bleached seat sections, and light scratches from the retractable doors.
• MOT test history is shown via the button in the listing overview.

SERVICE HISTORY

• It was most recently serviced in February 2025 at an indicated 6,477 miles by The Auto and Motorcycle Centre Ltd, which included an engine oil and filter change.
• A previous service was completed in September 2019 at an indicated 6,353 miles by Mill Lane Automotive Ltd, which included an engine oil and filter change.

Dates and mileage:

Apr 1991 - 5,756 miles - Richard Cound BMW

Apr 1992 - 7,629 miles - Richard Cound BMW

Jun 1993 - 8,515 miles - Richard Cound BMW

Mar 1995 - 10,596 miles - Cotswold BMW

Feb 1997 - 11,449 miles - Autotecnic

Jul 2000 - 12,099 miles - Cotswold BMW

Nov 2000 - Odometer changed

Mar 2003 - 1,481 miles - Gloucester BMW

Jun 2005 - 2,346 miles - Gloucester BMW

Jul 2007 - 3,728 miles - Gloucester BMW

Jun 2009 - 4,085 miles - Gloucester BMW

Jun 2012 - 4,902 miles - Gloucester BMW

Apr 2015 - 5,425 miles - Gloucester BMW

Apr 2017 - 5,791 miles - Mill Lane Automotive

Sep 2019 - 6,353 miles - Mill Lane Automotive

Feb 2025 - 6,477 miles - The Auto and Motorcycle Centre Ltd

SUMMARY

The BMW Z1 is a truly distinctive and innovative roadster, celebrated for its unique retractable doors, engaging driving dynamics, and limited production numbers. This particular example stands out with its handsome Ur-grün Metallic finish, well-documented history, and just three owners from new. It would make a compelling addition to any collection of modern classics, and promises to deliver an exciting and unique open-top driving experience for its next enthusiast owner.

Descriptions are provided by the seller and, to their knowledge, are accurate and not misleading. Buyers must satisfy themselves of the description’s accuracy, and independent research is strongly advised. Enquiries should be raised in the comments section and any inspections arranged before bidding.

Classic and collectible vehicles may have had cosmetic or bodywork repairs that are not visually apparent. Photographs may not accurately reflect colour or condition, so buyers should confirm key details directly with the seller. Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a car or bike. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.