The Ultimate Driving Machine was a one-off project that explored the idea of a hybrid motorcycle/car.
NameBMW Z21 “Just 2/2”
Launched:1995 Tokyo Motor Show
Specifics:rear mounted BMW K 1100 motorcycle four cylinder engine, 100 horsepower (73kilowatts), rear wheel drive, 550 kg (1,212 lbs) weight
Why It Matters Now:
The Z21, which was basically BMW’s Caterham concept, was an intriguing proposal for a two-seater, back to basics sports car that could put a smile on the face of the driver without breaking the bank.
The Z21 was created by the same engineers at BMW Technik GmbH who were responsible for the Z18 in the same year. It is far more than an open-top BMW. The idea behind this one-off project was to create a performance car that is simple and efficient, with the engine in the back sending power to all four wheels. The Z21 is all about showing less is more, from the removable cargo box and door panels to the exposed components.
The company was also trying to show that you don’t need much horsepower to have fun, as long as your car is light. The Z21’s four-cylinder engine, borrowed from a K 1100 motorbike, produced just 100 horsepower (73 kW). Although it might not sound very impressive, the Z21 was a great motorcycle/car combination that weighed in at 550 kg (1.212 lbs).
BMW was curious about the concept’s performance and took it for a spin. It reached 62 mph (1100 kph), from a standstill, in six seconds. Then it hit a speed of 112mph (180 km/h).
The Z21 four-wheeled motorcycle was created for fun, and no plans were made to make it commercially. There’s much to love about this unique BMW Technik GmbH project, other than the childish “Just 4-2/” nickname.