The Z8 counts among the most unconventional BMWs of the past two decades with its roadster body, retro-futuristic aesthetic and interior luxury. It dropped out of production in 2003 and will likely never return, but many of us have tender feelings towards it. Californian shop Smit Vehicle Engineering sees things the same way, too.
What you see here is the Smit Oletha, a one-off prototype built on the E86 Z4 Coupe chassis. Carbon bodywork makes it lighter than OEM at just 1,406 kg (3,100 lbs) curb weight.
Powering the replica is a transplanted E92 M3 GTS engine with a bit of tuning applied. As a result, the 4.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 now churns out more than 450 PS (444 hp / 331 kW) to a manual transmission.
If you want one, curb your expectations: SVE says it is a one-off project and not for sale.