BMW Z4 news - Z4 Mille Miglia: unworthy? - 2010

In 1940, BMW won the Mille Miglia - back when it was a proper mad-scary road race, not a cross-Italy cruise frequented by hairy blokes in leather hats - with a gorgeous 328 Kamm Coupe.

In the hands of Fritz Huschke von Hanstein, the 328 averaged a mind-blowing 103mph, which stands even today as the fastest Mille victory of all time.

Seventy years on, in honour of that terrifing achievement, BMW has unveiled its tribute: the Z4 Mille Miglia. You would be justified in expecting something spectacular. Surely, surely, BMW hasn't managed to wedge the M3's 414bhp V8 into the Z4's petite frame?

No. It hasn't. The Z4 Mille Miglia is - get ready for it - a Z4 sDrive 35is with a blacked-out front grille, dark chrome alloys and an M-Sport aero kit. Oh, and Alcantara seats and steering wheel. And some red stitching.

That is all. Not that we're complaining about a 335bhp roadster that'll hit 62mph in 4.8 seconds, but so can the standard Z4 35is. We'd hate to accuse BMW of pillaging its brand heritage, but... BMW, you're pillaging your brand heritage.

The Z4 Mille Miglia is limited to just 99 examples. Attempting to drive one across Italy at an average speed of 103mph will not end well.

Sam Philip