1989 BMW Z1

2dr Convertible

6-cyl. 2494cc/170hp FI

#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good

$51,300*

-16.4%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Value Graph04/2407/2410/24$20k$40k$60kJan 2025
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1989-1991 BMW Z1 (E30) stats
Highest sale
$122,452
Lowest sale
$28,202
Most recent sale
$43,146
Sales
24
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Model overview

Model description

In the late 1980s, several automakers were playing with the notion of a modern take on the small, lightweight roadster. While Mazda had a huge hit with its MX-5 Miata starting in 1989, few recall that BMW actually introduced one first. Unveiled at the 1987 Frankfurt Auto Show, the Z1 Roadster was available for order in 1988 for delivery in 1989.

The Z1 was certainly ahead of its time in some ways, including the easily replaceable body panels (later adopted by Smart) as well as the composite body and floorpan elements such as those found in the BMW i8 hybrid supercar. Another unforgettable element are those wild doors that drop down into the sills.

The drivetrain in the Z1 started with a conventional 2.5-liter inline six-cylinder SOHC engine, producing 168 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque. This was mated to a 5-speed manual transmission in a traditional front-engine, rear-drive configuration. The drivetrain was borrowed from the then-current 325i.

With the large iron-block engine at the front and a full understructure upon which the special body panels were hung, the BMW Z1 is heftier than it looks with a curb weight approaching 3000 pounds. This contributed to the car’s somewhat lackluster (but adequate) acceleration. Top speed was claimed at 137 mph.

Just 8000 examples of the BMW Z1 were produced between 1989 and 1991. The vast majority of production was sold in Germany, while the remainder sold elsewhere in Europe and a few sold in Japan. The Z1 was never formally imported to North America. Initial purchase price was the equivalent of just under $55,000, which was a lot for a fairly slow six-cylinder car, no matter how neat it looked. BMW made up for that, however, with the 1995 introduction of the far more conventional and successful Z3 Roadster.

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Common Questions

The value of a 1989 BMW Z1 can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $51,300 for a 1989 BMW Z1 in good condition with average spec.

The highest selling price of a 1989 BMW Z1 at auction over the last three years was $58,800. The highest prices are usually reserved for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or modifications and excellent history.

The lowest selling price of a 1989 BMW Z1 at auction over the last three years was $58,800. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.

In the last three years there have been 1 1989 BMW Z1s sold at public auction.

The most recent auction sale of a 1989 BMW Z1 was $58,800 on August 08, 2024 by PCARMARKET.

Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.

Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.

Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.

The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.

All prices shown here are based on various data sources, as detailed in About Our Prices. The Hagerty Price Guide is for informational purposes only and is not intended as financial advice. More information on how forecast models are calculated can be found on Forecasted Values page. For additional information and a complete description of benefits, visit hagerty.com/legal. Purchase of insurance not required for membership in HDC. Hagerty, Hagerty Valuation Tools & Hagerty Drivers Club are registered trademarks of The Hagerty Group LLC, ©2025 The Hagerty Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved. The Hagerty Group, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty, Inc.

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