Modification
German motor tuners Hamann-Motorsport, Schnitzer and Kelleners had programs for the enhancement of the Z1. The Hamann program included a 220 hp (160 kW) 2.7 L or a turbocharged 245 hp (183 kW) 2.5 L engine. Schnitzer did the 2.7 conversion with 200 bhp (150 kW), delivered a five-stud conversion with bigger brakes and lower suspension in combination with their Rennsport wheels. Kelleners' included a 286–330 hp (213–250 kW) 3.0 L engine.
Alpina had a special arrangement with BMWS AG to modify BMW Z1 vehicles into the RLE (Roadster Limited Edition). Alpina built 66 of these, although BMW notes that up to 82 Z1 can be tracked through "tuner cars" (most of them delivered to Alpina). About half of the Alpina RLE were delivered to Japan). The RLE featured an upgraded 200 hp 2.7 L engine, sport muffler, new springs (front), 17-inch rims/tires, and assorted (numbered) plaques (at steering wheel, shift knob and wheels) and the typical Alpina-Stripes. The 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) time dropped from 8.4 seconds to 7.1 seconds, top speed increased from 219 km/h (136 mph) to 228 km/h (142 mph), and price increased to 116,000 DM. The Engine was also offered as an upgrade - and about 7-8 Z1 were upgraded by Alpina in Buchloe to the RLE-Specs (without the 17-inch Wheels and numbered plagues). Manufacturer of the RLE is Alpina, the updated versions still shows BMW as the Manufacturer in the papers with all changes approved by the TÜV in Buchloe.
At least one Z1 has been modified with a 330 PS (243 kW; 325 hp) E34 M5 engine.
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