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The automotive world is buzzing with excitement following the recent unveiling of the Bovensiepen Zagato at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. This stunning vehicle represents a remarkable collaboration between Bovensiepen, led by the innovative brothers Andreas and Florian Bovensiepen, and the legendary Italian coachbuilder Zagato. While many might picture Zagato’s creations as exclusive to their own designs, this latest model is a testament to the beauty that can emerge when Bavarian engineering meets Italian artistry.
A homage to heritage
For those unfamiliar, the Bovensiepen name carries significant weight in the automotive community. After the passing of Burkard Bovensiepen in October 2023, his sons have taken the reins to redefine their family legacy. With Alpina now integrated into BMW, the brothers are embarking on a new journey with their own firm, based in Buchloe. Their debut project, the Bovensiepen Zagato, utilizes the M4 as a base, but with a twist that is sure to turn heads.
Instead of the traditional coupe, the brothers opted for the convertible version of the M4, cleverly removing its folding fabric roof. This design choice not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also offers the unique charm of a pillarless coupe, inviting fresh air and a sense of freedom into the driving experience. The visual impact is further heightened by Zagato’s signature double-bubble roof, a design motif that harkens back to the 1950s, seamlessly integrated into the car’s overall silhouette.
Design details that dazzle
At first glance, the Bovensiepen Zagato clearly distinguishes itself from its M4 roots. The new 20-inch forged wheels and a redesigned front end, which features an elongated hood adorned with a U-shaped vent, enhance its sporty persona. Gone are the oversized kidney grilles, replaced by a more streamlined aesthetic that reflects a modern interpretation of BMW’s design language.
As we delve deeper, the commitment to lightweight materials becomes apparent; the body is predominantly crafted from carbon fiber, ensuring both agility and durability. The rear showcases a more aggressive diffuser paired with dual exhaust tips, which utilize a titanium Akrapovič system that decreases weight by 40% compared to the standard exhaust. The wraparound design not only enhances its sporty appeal but also solidifies its identity as a true performance vehicle.
Unmatched performance under the hood
But what lies beneath the hood? The Bovensiepen Zagato is powered by an upgraded S58 engine, featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six capable of producing a staggering 602 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This power output surpasses that of the iconic 3.0 CSL, making it one of the most powerful inline-six production vehicles from BMW to date. The performance figures are equally impressive, with a 0-62 mph sprint in just 3.3 seconds and a top speed that exceeds 186 mph.
Designed exclusively with an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, this vehicle promises exhilarating performance while maintaining the comfort and refinement expected from a luxury grand tourer. The interior, while unmistakably BMW, boasts luxurious blue leather and Alcantara trim, showcasing a blend of elegance and sportiness that is hard to resist.
A limited edition masterpiece
Transforming a standard M4 Convertible into the Bovensiepen Zagato is no small feat; the process reportedly takes over 250 hours. Given the craftsmanship involved, it’s no surprise that this limited-edition model is expected to come with a hefty price tag, which will be revealed later this year. With the base M4 Convertible starting at nearly $100,000 in the U.S., enthusiasts can anticipate this grand tourer to venture deep into six-figure territory.
Looking ahead
The Bovensiepen Zagato marks a significant moment for both the Bovensiepen brothers and the Alpina brand, which BMW plans to reposition further upmarket. As the automotive landscape evolves, it’s fascinating to see how these storied brands adapt and innovate, merging their rich histories with contemporary design and performance. The future may hold even more surprises as we eagerly await the next chapter in this exciting automotive saga.