BMW has been exploring the nearly forgotten craft of coachbuilding. In 2022, it resurrected the iconic 'Batmobile' with a special edition 3.0 CSL, limited to just 50 units built on the M4 platform. Last year, it introduced the 'Clownshoe,' a shooting brake based on the Z4 M40i roadster, though regrettably, it never reached production. A few months ago, BMW unveiled the stunning Skytop, an 8 Series model featuring a targa top. Now, the German luxury automaker has confirmed plans to produce the Skytop, albeit in a limited run. Only 50 units will be made, and all have already been reserved. The price remains undisclosed, but rumors suggest it could be around €500,000, which translates to approximately $547,000 at current exchange rates. Even at this steep price, it wouldn't be the most expensive new BMW ever; that distinction belongs to the 3.0 CSL mentioned earlier, which reportedly cost €750,000 ($820,000). Assuming the Skytop indeed costs around half a million dollars, it represents a significant premium over the donor car, the M8 Competition Convertible, which starts at $150,000 before options.
Along with the announcement of its production, details about the Skytop's technical specifications have emerged. It will feature all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 engine delivering 617 horsepower—identical to the M8. The 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint time of 3.3 seconds matches that of the standard convertible. While the mechanical components are familiar, the exterior design marks a significant departure from BMW's often controversial styling. Drawing inspiration from the 507 and Z8, arguably some of the most beautiful cars to bear the roundel, the Skytop features a return to the iconic shark-nose motif and cleaner lines compared to the busy designs of regular models.
Unlike the M8 Convertible's electrically retractable fabric roof, the Skytop comes with two removable targa panels that must be manually taken off. These panels are wrapped in synthetic leather, making it advisable to avoid driving in the rain. When removed, they can be stored in a dedicated area in the trunk. One might expect a completely bespoke interior for a car priced around $500,000, given the cost is in Rolls-Royce territory. However, the Skytop retains the M8's cabin, despite BMW's claims of 'handpicked materials,' making it instantly recognizable. This might not be a drawback, as it features an older interior design without the large screens dominating the dashboard, a common feature in current models.
BMW cites the 'rapturous response' the concept received after its debut at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa in late May as the reason for approving a production version. Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design, describes the green light for a limited series as a 'dream come true.'
