Video: Alpina Z8 - Top Gear
DESCRIPTION:
Jeremy Clarkson reviews the BMW Alpina Tuned Z8 in this episode of Top Gear. He starts of by reminding viewers of his opinion on the original BMW Z8, which he claims drives similarly to a huge garbage truck because you never know what is going to happen next. He credits the Z8's driving feel to BMW's inability to decide whether the Z8 would be a sports car, grand tourer, or a muscle car.
Alpina has added a number of editions to the Z8 such as a completely redone interior, huge wheels, and an Alpina badge on the back. They also replaced the 5.0 Liter V8 engine (shared with the M5) and replaced it with another 4.6 Liter V8. The original 6 speed manual was also traded in favor of a 5 speed automatic.
Will the Alpina Z8 impress Jeremy Clarkson any more than the original? The first problem he runs into is a "pendulum" effect that he experiences when correcting the car out of a slide - the weight of the car jerks the car in the opposite direction of the slide just as the tires are about to hook up with the pavement. While Alpina's changes may seem a bit counterintuitive at first, Clarkson reveals that their goal was to focus the Z8 on its grand touring abilities.
Can this car impress Clarkson with its new more luxurious ride? Can it post a fast lap time around the track with the Stig at the wheel? Check out the rest of the video to find out.
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POSTED ON:
9/27/2008
