Ares Modena Gives A BMW Z4 An Italian Touch, Creating The Wami Lalique Spyder
by AutoExpert | 26 October, 2023
Ares Modena, known for its craftsmanship in custom vehicles, has recently introduced a captivating new project dubbed the Wami Lalique Spyder. This design draws inspiration from the classic roadsters of the 1950s and 1960s, notably taking cues from the timeless beauty of the Ferrari 250 GT California and the Maserati A6GCS Frua.
However, the foundation for this remarkable creation is a somewhat less exotic one: the BMW Z4 E85 generation, which rolled off the assembly lines between 2002 and 2008.
Ares Modena has chosen to retain the original 3.0-liter M54 inline-six engine, offering 231 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, combined with a six-speed automatic transmission. The body of this masterpiece is a labor of love, meticulously crafted from carbon fiber and accentuated with chrome details on the exhaust, bumpers, and wire wheels. For potential buyers, there's the task of selecting from four alluring colors, including Amalfi Red, Mediterranean Blue, a creamy white, and an undisclosed fourth option.
What truly sets the Wami Lalique Spyder apart are the thirteen handcrafted crystals from the renowned glass company, Lalique, meticulously integrated into the seats, dashboard, and other select areas. Creating these unique crystals involves subjecting the glass to scorching temperatures exceeding 2,552° Fahrenheit to sculpt them into their perfect forms. The unmistakable Lalique Hirondelles logo also graces the headrests and steering wheel.
Inside, you'll find a blend of English oak, Italian leather, and carbon fiber materials. Ares Design has also modernized the infotainment system, swapping out the Z4's original screen for a more up-to-date unit featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
Waleed Al Ghafari, Ares Executive Chairman, shares his inspiration for this project, recounting his childhood fascination with the cars driven by film stars during the glamorous era known as "La Dolce Vita." It's worth noting that Ares Modena plans to produce just 12 units of the Wami Lalique Spyder, and these bespoke creations are expected to come with a hefty price tag.
