Z8 - Collector Plates

[zed_eight_eh]

Hello all, was wondering if I could prevail upon you for some help. There is the possibility that my '01 qualifies for collector plates in my province. The plates are cool to have and, despite having some driving restrictions, potentially offer me huge insurance savings.

To qualify, a vehicle must be

at least 25 years old, or
a limited-production model (1,500 or fewer manufactured that model year), or
at least 15 years old, with no vehicles of any kind built by its manufacturer for at least five years.
The vehicle must also be

in exceedingly good condition, and
maintained or restored to a condition that the insurer considers to be of collectible value.
...I'm trying to qualify on the basis that less than 1,500 Z8's were manufactured for the 2001 model year. I saw the stats at http://www.bmwz8.us/vbb/showpost.php?p=76&postcount=1 but I'm not sure those meet the parameters of my insurer. I think they want the breakdown by model year, and I wonder if they want to see worldwide production for the 2001 MY.

Thanks in advance for your guidance...
Z8E

[Scott Pettit]

I hate to be the bearer of bad news but when you talk about Limited Production, they are referring to total production numbers. Since the Z8 had no unique changes in it's run, all years are included in the totals.

I am curious as to how you will save on insurance? If your car was unique or rare, your insurance rates should be higher unless you place it on a policy that restricts it's use. The best thing that I did was take my collector cars off of my regular insurance policy and place them with a company that specializes in said policies.

I also enjoy looking at license plates. Any pics of the plates that you referred to?

[zed_eight_eh]

Thanks Scott. I am making the attempt on the advice of a guy I met at a BMW show and shine last year, who had a '91 M5 with the plates on. I asked how he did it since the car was <25yo, and he explained the limited run (per model year) exemption. I know that E34 M5's are more scarce than Z8's but he encouraged me to try.

Our auto insurance is state-run (monopolized!). The link to the collector plate section is below. I stand to save ±85% on an annual policy on the basis that use will indeed be restricted - but no more limited than when I actually drive it anyway...

http://www.icbc.com/registration-licensing/specialty-vehicles/collector-vehicles

Cheers
Z8E