The 15-year-old BMW flagship sedan was transformed into a replica of the latest generation
- A used BMW 7-Series F01 from 2010 has been converted into a G70 imposter from 2024.
- Indian builders cut the body of the flagship sedan and integrated replica components.
- The result looks rather convincing, although a closer look reveals a few inconsistencies.
In the world of car design, polarizing doesn’t always mean bad—it just means people care enough to argue about it. And when it comes to the latest BMW 7-Series (G70), few designs have stirred the pot quite like this one. Well, aside from, you know, the one whose name shall not be spoken.
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Still, some die-hard BMW fans are drawn to the bold new look, even if their wallets (or current rides) aren’t quite on the same page. One particularly motivated owner in India, for example, took matters into their own hands, transforming an aging 7-Series into a surprisingly convincing knockoff of the latest model.
From F01 to Faux G70
The donor car in question is a 7-Series F01, which BMW built from 2008 to 2015. Compared to its predecessor, the infamously over-styled Bangle-era E65, the F01 leaned into conservative elegance. It was also less aggressive than the sharper G11 that followed. But with over a decade of age showing, the owner decided it was time for a major visual overhaul.
The transformation was handled by Autokrafte, a custom body shop based in Ahmedabad, India. To pull it off, the team sourced replica parts of the headlights, taillights, bumpers, and other exterior panels that mimic the G70 7-Series’ design language with surprising accuracy.
More: New BMW 7-Series Tries On The Front Ends Of Its Predecessors
Of course, swapping bodywork between two very different generations isn’t exactly plug-and-play. Autokrafte had to cut away the entire front and rear ends of the F01, reshaping the fenders and hood to accept the new parts with reasonable continuity.
The F01-based conversion above compared to the genuine G70 7-Series (below).
At the front, the car now features the G70’s signature split headlights and an oversized double-coffin kidney grille. Around back, slim LED taillights bring things up to date, while black bumper inserts and matching side skirts imitate the sporty M Package. The makeover even includes diamond-cut alloy wheels and a two-tone Oxide Grey Metallic/Santorini Black paint job for extra flair.
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But if you know your BMWs, the differences are hard to miss. The cabin greenhouse, doors, handles, and mirrors are all original F01 parts, creating some visual mismatches. Look closer and you’ll also spot panel gaps that don’t quite line up, and the longer overhangs slightly throw off the proportions. The wheels, while stylish, seem a bit small for the aggressive new look.
Autokrafte doesn’t mention any upgrades under the skin, so it’s safe to assume the interior, chassis, and powertrain are all untouched. Pricing also remains under wraps, though with used 7-Series values dropping like a stone, it’s likely this facelift cost a fraction of the real thing.
A Growing Trend in Budget Facelifts
DIY and aftermarket facelifts like this are increasingly popular in Asian markets, offering owners an affordable way to modernize their vehicles. Some conversion kits are even available online, making such projects more accessible. For example, a Maybach-style package for the Mercedes E-Class allows owners to add a touch of luxury to their executive sedan without breaking the bank.
As for this particular BMW, the G70 is due for its own refresh soon as part of the Neue Klasse era. Don’t be surprised if this owner swings by Autokrafte again, looking to stay one facelift ahead of the curve.