BMW's Z8: Structurally Shaky?

When BMW, the Munich-based maker of performance cars, launched its zippy Z8 roadster in 1999 with a starring product-placement role in a James Bond movie, aficionados the world over were quick to whip out their checkbooks. Hailed as a descendant of the legendary BMW 507 sports racer, the Z8 featured sharp retro styling, a 394-hp V-8, and a chassis of lightweight aluminum.

Not surprisingly, the Z8 became an instant hit. Many fans paid upwards of $160,000 and waited months for delivery. By the time the roadster went out of production at the end of 2003, some 5,700 were sold -- a number to collectors who believed they were acquiring a classic. BMW seemed convinced, too. In an unusual step, it assured owners that a 50-year parts supply would be available for the limited-production model.