Audi->ke14 and Mercedes->ke187, watch out! BMW is preparing a successor for the Z8 that will compete with models like the Audi R8->ke1440 and the Mercedes SLS->ke2504. The British magazine Auto Express reports that the supercar will be called the Z9 and it will be inspired by the California Spyder concept unveiled at the 2005 Los Angeles Motor Show and the Vision EfficientDynamics concept unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Like the Z4 roadster->ke289, the future supercar will feature a long bonnet and tiny front with rear overhangs and a double-bubble deck rear similar to the one used in the Porsche Boxster Spyder. The Z9 will also feature new design elements introduced by BMW's new styling boss, Adrian Van Hooydonk. The active front splitter and rear diffuser will change shape at speed to optimize air flow around the car to improve fuel efficiency.

The Z9 will be built on the same platform as the 7-Series->ke323 and will feature a carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) body. Under the hood there will be the same 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine from the M5->ke2922. Output will be in the 600 HP area.

Production version is expected to debut in 2014.

2014 BMW Z9 Spyder

Specifications
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  • Model: 2014 BMW Z9 Spyder
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