Someone bade U.S. $267,000 for a non-genuine Ferrari 250 California Spider based on a BMW Z3 chassis and Chevrolet Corvette Z06 engine.
The replica was built based on the body of a 1998 BMW Z3 Roadster, which was torn completely apart and remade from glass-fiber plastic panels. The tuner took care to copy both the key features of the Italian classic and its less apparent styling details, like the radiator grille pattern, the chrome accents, the door handles and the air intakes. Adjustable springs and shock absorbers were used alongside ceramic brake pads and 15-inch multi-spoke wheels.
The interior got its own share of upgrades. These included a new dashboard complete with authentic-looking gauges and a center console, as well as a wood-rimmed Nardi steering wheel. Envisioned as an upgrade over the original, the replica wound up with power-adjustable leather seats and a remote-controlled Nakamichi multimedia system stored in the glove compartment. The retractable cloth top is still functional, by the way.
Things look livelier in the engine bay where a V8 transplanted from a 2007 Chevy Corvette Z06 toils in tandem with its native six-speed MT and some other drivetrain components. The wheels receive more than 507 PS (500 hp / 373 kW). The exhaust system is custom-built and has a valve for fine sound adjustment.
The seller claims the replica took more than three years to complete and is still legally recognized as a BMW.
