SPY PHOTOS: BMW Z9

Here are first photos proving that BMW is about to continue after the famous Z8 with an all new Z9 roadster. However, while the Bavarian car maker sold a total of only 5703 units of the Z8, plans for the new sportscar are a production of 15000 cars per year - at a price per car from Eur 80.000 upwards. The prototype got caught amidst the city traffic in Munich. Despite its disguise, one can recognize the rather long hood suggesting a front engine and rear drive. The two seater's measurements are estimated to rate around 4,50m in overall length and weighs around 1.5 tons. Power could come from engines ranging from a 3.0 litre 6 cyl. turbo 306 HP to a V8 delivering over 400 HP to a V10 from the M5 delivering over 500 HP. The top of the line powerplant could be a 6,3 litre V12 performing 605 HP. The prototype is furthermore featuring clearly visible air intakes on the side, which are reminiscent of the famous BMW 507 from 1955. It also had those very distinct air intakes on the side and used to be one of the most favoured cars of the rich and the famous like Elvis Presley, Alain Delon or Ursula Andress. Once the new BMW super sportscar hits the market, it will meet a large number of serious competitors. Among them the just launched Audi R8, a Mercedes AMG gullwing which is not yet on the market, as well as the new Lexus LF-A and the Honda NSX. The photos are showing the convertible version, also a coupe is in the pipeline.