BMW has officially greenlit the production of its head-turning Skytop concept—a bespoke open-top grand tourer first revealed at the 2024 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. Just 50 examples of the ultra-luxury roadster will be hand-built, each priced at approximately €500,000. Every unit has already been claimed by collectors and brand loyalists, securing its status as one of the most exclusive BMWs ever made.
A Contemporary Tribute to BMW Icons
Inspired by heritage models like the BMW 503 and the cult classic Z8, the Skytop is a modern design masterclass. It features an arrow-shaped bonnet, sculpted bodywork, a shark-nose grille, and a pronounced central spline that runs the length of the car—from the bonnet to the aluminium-trimmed boot. Ultra-slim LED headlights and an illuminated kidney grille add futuristic touches to the otherwise timeless silhouette.
This is not merely a showpiece; it’s a functional piece of art intended to blur the line between design nostalgia and cutting-edge engineering.
Under the bonnet lies BMW’s 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing a formidable 625 horsepower. Paired with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport gearbox and xDrive all-wheel drive, the Skytop rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in just over 3.3 seconds. It shares performance DNA with the M8 Competition, but is housed in a body that prioritises bespoke craftsmanship over brute force.
The interior follows suit. With Schedoni leather upholstery throughout and custom-designed controls, the cabin is a showcase of BMW’s artisanal precision. Each Skytop will be delivered with tailored leather luggage to match—because when you’re spending half a million euros on a car, your overnight bag ought to look the part.
Exclusivity with Global Reach—Except the U.S.
Though the Skytop won’t be homologated for the American market due to regulatory constraints, that hasn’t stopped well-heeled U.S. enthusiasts from securing allocations through alternative routes. The car’s global demand has reaffirmed BMW’s position in the niche world of ultra-exclusive luxury models.
This limited run follows a wider industry trend where legacy carmakers are leaning into their heritage to create bespoke, high-end offerings that elevate brand identity while experimenting with design.
With the Skytop, BMW signals a new chapter in its commitment to craftsmanship, heritage, and high-performance artistry. It’s not just a collector’s item—it’s a rolling sculpture that bridges the brand’s storied past with its forward-looking design ethos. In a world of mass production, the Skytop is a rarity—both literally and philosophically.
