Joji Nagashima, the designer of the BMW Z3
Joji Nagashima is a Japanese designer known in the automotive industry for his outstanding work at BMW. Born in Tokyo in 1955, Nagashima has earned a prominent place in the world of automotive design, leaving his signature on several iconic BMW models.
Vehicles designed by Joji Nagashima for BMW
During his career at BMW, Joji Nagashima has been involved in the design of several remarkable vehicles that have left an indelible mark on the company’s history.
BMW Z3:
The BMW Z3 is a two-seater sports car that was produced between 1995 and 2002. The Z3 was based on the platform of the BMW 3 Series (E36) and was the first mass-produced car in the Z Series. The exterior design of the Z3 was created by Joji Nagashima and his team and has become a true classic. With its unmistakable styling and exciting performance, the Z3 attracted the attention of sports car fans all over the world.
BMW 3er Reihe (E90):
The fifth generation of the BMW 3 Series, designated by the model designations E90 (saloon), E91 (estate) and E92 (coupé), also bore Joji Nagashima’s contribution to exterior design. Introduced in December 2004, the E90 was produced until October 2013 and has become one of the best-known and most successful models in the 3 Series. This model brought significant innovations, such as run-flat tyres and the iDrive operating system.
BMW 5er Reihe (E39):
The BMW 5 Series (E39) is the fourth generation of the BMW luxury class, produced between 1995 and 2004. Joji Nagashima also left his mark on the exterior design of the E39, which was offered as both a saloon and an estate (Touring). The E39 was distinguished by its pioneering use of aluminium components and the availability of a four-cylinder diesel engine. In addition, the high-performance E39 M5 saloon was the first M5 to be powered by a V8 engine.
Joji Nagashima’s career and achievements
Joji Nagashima is a talented designer with an impressive track record in the automotive industry. After graduating from Musashino Art University in 1978, Nagashima earned his master’s degree in industrial design from Wayne State University in 1980. He began his career at Opel and moved to Renault in 1986. He eventually moved to BMW in 1988, where he left his mark on several iconic models.
During his time at BMW, Nagashima was recognised for his creativity and unique vision in automotive design.
