BMW’s Rare Skytop

Overview

Have you heard about BMW’s latest venture, the Skytop? This ultra-exclusive roadster is causing quite the buzz as it’s being put through its paces at Germany’s iconic Nürburgring racetrack. The Skytop is a bespoke creation, essentially a coachbuilt marvel that draws inspiration from the existing BMW M8. It’s equipped with the same powerhouse engine—a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 churning out an impressive 617 horsepower, all while retaining the M8’s all-wheel-drive system.

Exclusivity

Get this, only a mere 50 Skytop units are slated for production, making it one of the most elusive rides ever manufactured by BMW. Each of these rare beauties will set collectors back roughly $500,000. That’s over three times the cost of a BMW XM, firmly placing the Skytop in the realm of luxury and exclusivity.

Design

BMW has gone all out in the design department, drawing from its storied past. The Skytop channels elements of the celebrated 507 roadster, with a distinctive shark-nose front and razor-sharp LED headlights. The spine running down its rear deck and the sleek turbine-style wheels are just a few of the nods to its concept model that have made it to the production version.

The car even sports eye-catching dark red roof panels. Unlike the regular M8 Convertible, which comes with an automated roof mechanism, Skytop owners need to manually remove and stow the panels. This manual process adds a vintage charm, though it might not be everyone’s cup of tea in terms of convenience.

Performance

The Skytop is no slouch when it comes to performance. Underneath the hood, the 617 horsepower from its twin-turbo V8 promises a thrilling drive. It’s mated to the M8 Competition’s AWD system, ensuring that all that power is put to good use on the tarmac. The exhaust, while featuring faux oval tailpipe trims, delivers the authentic roar expected from a performance vehicle of this caliber.

Driving Feel

Driving the Skytop feels like a blend of precision and power. While it shares roots with the M8, the Skytop boasts a unique flair that makes every drive feel special. It stands out even among other luxury convertibles, offering an intoxicating mix of speed and aesthetic grandeur. Picture driving a refined beast that’s ready to pounce at any moment—smooth, yet ever-responsive to the driver’s touch.

Comparison

When compared to other upscale convertibles, the Skytop shines in its rarity and design finesse. Vehicles like the Porsche 911 Turbo or the Ferrari Portofino might compete in terms of power and prestige, but the Skytop sets itself apart with its bespoke craftsmanship and classic design cues. It’s truly a collector’s dream, blending BMW’s rich heritage with cutting-edge performance.

Final Thoughts

For those lucky enough to snap up one of these rare machines, it’s more than just a car—it’s a statement piece and a glimpse into automotive artistry. As BMW continues to test this glamorous prototype, one can only anticipate the reactions once these 50 masterworks hit the streets.