BMW shocked the world at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show. Featuring a flawless design from Henrik Fisker, its all-new Z8 was a masterful blend of classic open-top motoring and modern-day high-tech engineering. While clearly paying homage to Count Albrecht von Goertz’s iconic BMW 507 design with its high fender vents, tapered front end, and banjo-type steering wheel, the Z8 had no problem standing on its own. The all-aluminum, monocoque spaceframe chassis was extrusion-pressed and held together by approximately 1000 rivets and 57 meters of fused MIG-welded seams. Its inconceivably light 506-pound frame was said to have been as rigid as that of BMW’s closed sedans.

Inside, the interior was streamlined to be as button-free as possible, with several functions integrated into multifunction controls. A smooth, body color-matched aluminum dash holds a center-mounted instrument cluster canted slightly toward the driver. The cabin features supple black Nappa leather upholstery everywhere from the power-adjustable seats to the dashboard, center console, and door panels.

Like its spiritual predecessor, the Z8’s performance fully matched its striking styling. Headlining the car’s stat sheet is BMW’s brutish S62 4.9-liter, all aluminum, double-overhead cam V-8 engine producing 395 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque. Motor Trend was able to achieve a 0-60 mph time in 4.2 seconds, even faster than the factory’s claimed time of 4.7 seconds, and Road & Track found the BMW Z8 outperformed its contemporary Ferrari 360 Modena in the top categories of acceleration, handling, and braking.

Imported through US Customs on 12 December 2001, this Z8 was then delivered to its first owner in sunny Florida. An accompanying CARFAX report shows the car was enjoyed sparingly over the next 13 years, accruing just over 3,700 miles during the span. It is presented in a menacing triple-black color scheme of black over black leather trim with matching black factory hard top and black fabric convertible soft top.

With its low odometer reading of just 3,717 miles at cataloguing, this pampered Z8 checks all the right boxes and offers the perfect avenue into owning one of the quintessential German sports cars.