The magic of special cars? They make us dream – of sliding behind the wheel, of driving along iconic roads where time stands still, or simply of being brought to life.
Unveiled as a design study at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d'Este 2024 on Lake Como, the BMW Concept Skytop (➜ Read also: BMW Concept Skytop) aroused desires with its timeless elegance and precise craftsmanship. A dream that is now becoming a reality. The concept is being launched on the roads in a limited edition of 50 models. The open-top two-seater honours the history of iconic BMW roadsters such as the BMW 507 (➜ Read also: Elvis’ BMW 507 – a legend revived) or the BMW Z8. A fusion of tradition and modernity. In no time, enthusiasts and collectors have snapped up the limited BMW Skytop editions available for reservation.
From concept to production in only 15 months – a challenge mastered through true teamwork (➜ Read also: The BMW concept cars you need to know). “We were able to translate the concept car almost exactly into the limited series”, says Tobias Mühlbauer, Product Manager of the BMW Skytop. “We made refinements to further enhance the driving experience, utility, and unmistakable quality. All parts, such as headlights, crystals, and saddlery, are individually manufactured by a small, expert team skilled in developing limited editions and exclusive models.
The BMW Skytop boasts a distinctive design that combines top-tier driving dynamics with elegance. Announcing its production feels like a dream come true”, says Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design.
Head of BMW Group Design
The athletic design gives the vehicle a sense of dynamism, even when it is standing still. The arrow-shaped bonnet, iconic BMW sharknose, and tapered rear all pay homage to the BMW Z8.
Just like the legendary Roadster in its day, the BMW Skytop also has the most powerful V8 engine (➜ Read also: Technical marvels: 12 standout examples of a BMW engine) in the BMW drive portfolio. The 4.4-litre engine delivers 460 kW/625 hp paired with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. With BMW xDrive, it accelerates to 100 km/h in just over 3.3 seconds.
How does it feel on the road? ‘The BMW Skytop seamlessly combines comfort with dynamic performance – a classic roadster with exhilarating performance and a vibrant drive sound’, says Mühlbauer.
The BMW Skytop is a masterpiece of automotive craftsmanship designed for unforgettable moments. For Mühlbauer, ‘Exclusive moments are priceless, which is why they matter so much’. The BMW Skytop embodies special experiences to be savoured with all the senses: precise craftsmanship, select materials, luxurious comfort, and timeless elegance. Here, the journey becomes the destination.
The courage to dream also inspires Birce Akalay, Turkish actress and jewellery designer, who has experienced the BMW Skytop firsthand. For her, being able to pursue her own dreams is a special privilege. ‘Like climbing a mountain, it demands strength, patience, and perseverance – but the rewards are worth it. Special moments can come as surprises. But the ones I value most are those earned through considerable effort. The hard work makes them even more meaningful’.
Birce sees each piece of jewellery in her collection – with its own unique history – as evolving with her to tell a new story. This sense of a journey through time (➜ Read also: 25 years of the BMW X5) is also evoked by the BMW Skytop, which she experienced up close during a shoot near Saint-Tropez: ‘For me, the BMW Skytop embodies a truly pleasurable experience’.
Its captivating design makes it the ideal vehicle for setting off in search of rare moments meant to be cherished. ‘It’s like gliding across the Bosphorus in a graceful motorboat, the wind in your face, approaching a charming waterfront restaurant with unique local cuisine’.
For Birce, modern luxury has taken a new form: understated yet ahead of its time in terms of comfort – a form shared by the BMW Skytop. Mühlbauer sees its blend of elegance, precision craftsmanship, and driving dynamics as the essence of its appeal. Whether the workshop for unforgettable moments is a film studio, a jewellery atelier, or a BMW plant, each shares the drive to take us on a unique journey.
Author: Markus Löblein; Art: Madita O’Sullivan, Lucas Lemuth, Verena Aichinger; Photos: BMW; Video: BMW
