From Concept to Reality
No discuss: the BMW Skytop is one of the most exclusive cars the Munich manufacturer has revealed in recent years. It first appeared at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2024 on Lake Como as a striking concept car.
The public’s reaction was so enthusiastic that within just 15 months BMW decided to turn the vision into reality (I love it when the crowd cheers!).
The result? Only 50 units will be produced – and finding buyers was no challenge. In fact, it seems there were far more enthusiasts ready to sign up than the limited run allowed.
Design and Character
Inspirations and Silhouette
The Skytop’s styling clearly draws inspiration from BMW legends – most notably the 507 and the Z8. The signature shark-nose front, long hood, elegant side profile, and boat-tail rear end bring together heritage and modern design.
Targa Roof
The most distinctive feature is the two-piece targa roof, finished in leather. Personally, I find the targa concept phenomenal, though the leather trim may divide opinions. Both roof panels can be removed manually and stowed in the rear, allowing for open-air driving.
BMW Skytop (2025)- Engine and Performance
- Engine: 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 (S63B44T4 engine)
- Power: 625 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed Steptronic Sport
- Drivetrain: xDrive (all-wheel drive)
- 0–100 km/h: 3.3 seconds
- Weight: approx. 2.0–2.3 tons (estimated, no official data yet)
Skytop – For Whom?
BMW has not announced official pricing, but estimates place it above €500,000. With production capped at just 50 units, the Skytop will remain out of reach for most fans of the brand.
My Alternative Idea
Since the BMW Skytop will be nearly impossible to obtain, anyone dreaming of a collectible open-top BMW should consider the BMW Z8. Already an icon, the Z8 combines timeless proportions with a powerful V8 and continues to appreciate in value. Unlike the Skytop, it’s actually possible to buy one.
With a budget of around €200,000, there are Z8s on the market, although pristine examples can reach double that. It’s no secret this car is both an investment and an excellent store of value. The production numbers also make an interesting comparison: while the Skytop will be limited to 50 units, the Alpina Roadster V8 (a derivative of the Z8) had just 555 built – already a sought-after gem among collectors.
BMW Z8 (1999–2003) – Engine and Performance
- Engine: 4.9-liter naturally aspirated V8 (S62B50)
- Power: 400 hp (294 kW)
- Torque: 500 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Drivetrain: RWD
- 0–100 km/h: 4.7 seconds
- Top speed: 250 km/h (electronically limited)
- Weight: 1,585 kg (official data), roughly 1.6–1.7 tons
Alpina Roadster V8 (2003) – Engine and Performance
- Engine: 4.8-liter naturally aspirated V8 (Alpina H1, based on BMW M62)
- Power: 381 hp (280 kW)
- Torque: 520 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic Steptronic (ZF)
- Drivetrain: RWD
- 0–100 km/h: 5.3 seconds
- Top speed: 260 km/h
- Weight: 1,615 kg (official), roughly 1.6–1.7 tons
Anather Idea for BMW investment
Let’s not forget about a fantastic car that meets the requirement of “it has to be a BMW” and is a good investment idea. The BMW Z3, although it’s at the other end of the spectrum in terms of budget.