BMW and AH similarities

[Johnny]

Just bought a '06 BMW Z4 (her car) and couldn't help but notice the similarities with my BJ7. Both have inline six cylinder motors, about 3.0 Liters, both have two seats, boot is about the same size, a retractable top, and even the E-brake is similar. I have to admit the AH is still my favorite driver...

 

[Keoke]

EXCEPT!!!

It can't stand being in the slow lane and it's more en Fast enough for the fast lane.----Keoke--- :laugh:

 

[AJAX50]

BMW did own the rights to the name when they owned BL, It is possible that they intended to us the Austin Healey name for their sports cars but changed their mind when they sold BL.

 

[AUSMHLY]

I think the profile of the BMW Z8 looks more like a BJ8.

 

[AUSMHLY]

Healey & Z8

 

[Keoke]

I think the profile of the BMW Z8 looks more like a BJ8.

Naa Look like a Miata with a $50:000 make over.

But you got a good eye there Roger!!!---Keoke-- :laugh:

 

[Johnny]

That's funny Keoke, never thought of that.
Thanks

 

[HealeyRick]

From Octane magazine, June 2008:

"Rumours of a new Healey have never completely died away since BMW showed its project Warwick concept in 2001. That had more than a touch of Z4 about it, and conspiracy theorists said this was because the Z4 was planned to be branded a Healey when BMW owned Rover Group – though the Bavarian company later admitted it had no right to use the name."

And here's BMW's "Project Warwick" that was built on a Z8 chassis:

 

[Keoke]

Still look like a Miata just flattened out a bit.---Keoke- :laugh:

 

[fordtrucks4ever]

https://www.britishcarforum.com/bcforum/ubbthreads.php/topics/620722/vette#Post620722

 

[Keoke]

AUSMHLY:
By far the best approach to the Healey.
I have always enjoyed the look and the lines of the Z8.
It is a spectacular auto.


I have been waiting since it was introduced for the price
to come down to a point that I could afford....
no such luck.

The car isnt expensive the hood ornaments are , they cost $30,000 each. The car in between the ornaments is just a $10,000 status symbol.


I can only dream.... nice choice


--------------------------------Keoke-- :laugh:

 

[Randy Forbes]

Nice car Johnny, I hope the missus lets you drive it once in a while :wink:

The Z4's styling was an acquired taste when introduced, though I've always liked it. We were penciled in for the 1st ///MZ4 that arrived in Toledo, but buying a house a few months beforehand nixed that plan.

The dealership however, still let me take the 1st one they got out when it arrived. See: https://www.rfdm.com/gallery/album39

When they got the 1st Z4 M Coupe in, they called me again (many detailed shots here): https://www.rfdm.com/gallery/album57

11/11/10 marked my 10th anniversary with the black car (99 M Rdstr).

Next August, specifically, the Thursday before Labor Day, will mark 10 years with the gray car (01 M Rdstr).

 

[Johnny]

Still look like a Miata just flattened out a bit.---Keoke- :laugh:

Probably the other way around, A Miata made to look like a BMW Z8.

Does the "Z8" have a "V8"? Then I can say "I wish I had a V8?"

Sorry, couldn't resist.

 

[BlueRidge1]

I doubt that BMW/Healey would have the grill that looks like the early Healey Grill with out spliting it in two as you would normally see on a BMW.
BR1

 

[Andy65]

BMW publicly said "Their car was designed in the spirit of the Austin Healey." Quite a nod of respect. Someone here must have the interview. I don't recall where I read it. That explains the similarity.

 

[PC]

BMW publicly said "Their car was designed in the spirit of the Austin Healey." ...

In other words, it's <span style="font-style: italic">supposed </span>to leak oil.

 

[GregW]

That explains why my M coupe leaks a little oil. Though mine looks more like an MGC GT than a Healey.

 

[glemon]

I thought the Z4 was about the closest thing we had to a modern Healey, it is not beutiful like the Healey, but is more tough and rugged looking than say a Miata, and also has more engine than a Miata, even started out as a 4 then progressed to a straight six and and M version.

The chassis was not that sophisticated, but it got the job done, and it had a nice traditional sports car cockpit.