Frame - Structural Views

The side and top view shown reveals the formation of the frame "Y" structure.

The "Y" structure enhances strength in the Z8 application.

The depth of the side rail adds to the center strength, as well as accommodating the floor pan.

Fig 1: Identifying Frame Of Car

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Using the "Y" structure provides the additional strength needed to compensate for the lack of a roof (open roadster).

The transmission tunnel is also a critical frame rail structure.

This method of construction provides two additional frame rails for center support which enhances structural rigidity.

The illustration highlights the triangulation pieces that reinforce the "Y" structure.

Fig 2: Identifying Frame Rail Structure

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The frame and floor pan assembly illustration shows additional triangulation reinforcement pieces.

The rear support beam provides additional floor pan support as well as torsional rigidity.

Fig 3: Identifying Frame And Floor Pan Assembly

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 4: Identifying Windshield Frame Structural Mounting And Engine Compartment Bulkhead Assembly

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

To offer support for the front "clip" to the engine compartment bulkhead (preventing upward flex), the frame with a joint connection is used.

Critical in race car construction for strength and rigidity is the use of "triangulation".

Fig 5: Identifying Car Shell

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Triangulation can clearly be seen to reinforce the upper front "clip" rails which support the strut towers.

This type of reinforcing provides excellent support for the aluminum frame.

Fig 6: Identifying Left Front Frame With Joint Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The front structure illustration highlights the additional frame support behind the front bumper assembly.

Fig 7: Identifying Mounting Points For Bumper Impact Absorbers

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The engine compartment structure shown in this actual view reveals the massive frame rail size.

Fig 8: Identifying Engine Compartment Structure

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The aluminum strut tower structure is supported by two channel braces that connect with the upper support rail.

This method of construction reduces weight in the inner fender well area.

An additional strengthening plate for the frame rail is visible here.

Fig 9: Identifying Aluminum Strut Tower Structure On Right Supported By Two Channels

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The left rear floor section shown reveals the inner frame rail mounting to rear support beam.

The roll bar supports are integral in the main structure.

Fig 10: Identifying Inner Frame Rail Mounting

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The rear frame section (right side shown) points out the rear strut tower support and the integral roll bar mounting.

Fig 11: Identifying Rear Strut Tower Support And Integral Roll Bar Mounting

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The left rear frame structure shown on the right highlights the upswept rear frame rail and the mounting point for the rear impact absorber.

Fig 12: Identifying Mounting Point For Rear Impact Absorber

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The luggage compartment view on the right reveals the spacious trunk.

The fuel tank is forward mounted in this compartment.

Also shown is the massive rear support structure and mounting for the bumper impact absorbers.

Fig 13: Identifying Luggage Compartment View

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The luggage compartment floor insert is a bolt in plastic tray that holds the battery, tool kit, and antenna amplifier.

The view also shows the BST cable and high amp fuses.

Fig 14: Identifying BST Cable And High Amp Fuses

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.