| Make | BMW |
| Model | Mille Miglia coupe |
| Concept year | 2006 |
| Production year | - |
| Engine | 3.2 litre straight 6 cyl |
The Mille Miglia concept coupe from BMW was created to commemorate the BMW 328 touring coupe which won the 1,000 mile Mille Miglia race in 1940. In the process setting an as-yet unbroken record for the highest average speed, 166.7 km/h (103.5 mph).
The Mille Miglia is an annual historic race which was first run in 1927, but after a horrific crash in 1957 the race was suspended. In 1977 it was resurrected as a race for classic sportscars. Only models which competed in the original event are allowed to enter the Brecia to Rome and back again marathon race.
The 2006 Mille Miglia concept coupe was never intended to race, but it did feature at the 2006 race where it was unveiled. Built to pay respect to the winning BMW 328 Touring coupe, its drivers, and the engineers who created it, the Mille Miglia concept coupe shares similar lines to the original car but translated into BMW's contemporary style.
Powered by the same drivetrain as the BMW Z4 M coupe, the Mille Miglia concept has thoroughly modern underpinnings. However the design process that created the concept were based on traditional methods. Using clay and plaster 3d models instead of computer generated images.
The bodywork of the Mille Miglia concept coupe is made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic, and its classic flowing lines hide some of the interesting shapes found on the BMW Z4.
The asymmetrical LED taillight cuts down from the top of the rear window and curls under the rear of the coupe. BMW say that this unusual layout increases visibility for following vehicles, but in reality it would probably confuse many drivers. Interesting feature nonetheless.
The 2006 BMW Mille Miglia concept coupe is longer, wider and slightly lower than the Z4 it is based on, but the 20 inch old-fashioned wheels are still quite prominent.
Entry to the Mille Miglia is via the rear-hinged canopy. The entire structure, windows and all, lifts up and allows the driver and passenger to climb in, where they are protected by an overhead X-frame roll cage.
Inside the concept three main materials are used. Stainless steel, un-dyed natural leather, and Lycra fabric. BMW's designers have used simple stitching to connect the fabrics and kept out any unnecessary decoration to maintain a functional race-inspired interior.
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