A BMW Z1 collector is actively seeking to trade his exceptionally well-preserved 1990 model for another example with significantly more mileage. Maximilian Chester, the owner, explains his unusual preference: he intends to drive the car extensively and feels constrained by the low odometer reading of his current vehicle.
The Z1 in question has only 4,000 miles on the clock, making it highly desirable among collectors. Chester acquired the car after spotting it on Instagram through dealer Joe Macari, having previously been owned by French racer François Perrodo. Despite paying between £50,000 and £75,000 for the vehicle, he is willing to sell if a suitable alternative presents itself.
Chester’s ideal trade would involve a Z1 in similar condition, ideally in the same “Ur Green” (Primal Green) color with a lemon yellow interior, but with higher mileage. He specifically wants a car that has been driven rather than preserved as an investment. The market offers several Z1s in vibrant colors with approximately 60,000 miles, priced between £40,000 and £45,000, primarily from continental European sellers. Even a black-exterior model in the UK, also with 60,000 miles, is available for around £35,000.
The BMW Z1 is notable for its unique design, including doors that slide down into the sills and removable plastic body panels—which BMW claimed could be taken off in under 40 minutes. The car’s 2.5-liter straight-six engine, shared with the E30 325i, delivers 168 horsepower, a modest figure by today’s standards. However, Chester emphasizes that the Z1’s appeal lies in its striking aesthetics and the experience of driving it with the doors open rather than outright speed.
The Z1’s convertible roof is also remarkably compact when folded away. As Chester wryly notes, one of the most frequent questions he receives is, “What do you do when it rains?”
Ultimately, Chester’s willingness to trade highlights a growing trend among certain collectors who prioritize usability over pristine preservation. This suggests a shift away from viewing classic cars solely as investments toward embracing them as functional, enjoyable machines. The Z1, with its unconventional design and limited production run, remains a sought-after model, but its value is increasingly tied to its actual use rather than its static condition.
