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1981 BMW M1
1 of 399 Road Cars Produced
In 1976, design began within the BMW Motorsport
division to develop a mid-engined GT racecar for both Group 4 and Group 5
racing. Members of the buying public were the beneficiaries of a rule stating that
a minimum of 400 identical cars had to be built. Many of the cars were
initially produced in Italy
and shipped to Germany
for completion. A total of 399 road versions of the M1 were produced along with
56 race versions. All road cars were powered by a 3.5L inline 6 cylinder engine
making 277hp with 5 speed transmissions, capable of propelling the 3,175 lbs M1
to 60mph in 5.6 seconds and to a top speed of 162mph!
The white BMW M1 presented here was
delivered directly to its first owner when assembly was completed February 6, 1981
in Germany. Even after changing hands a few times across the United States,
it only shows a mere 9,960 kms (6,188 miles) and the white paint shows incredibly
well. Its 3.5L fuel injected, inline six-cylinder engine starts and runs just as
it should, providing a very unique driving experience. The interior features
low bucket seats with leather and cloth inserts coloured blue and red, a full
complement of controls for audio and HVAC systems and a 3-spoke steering wheel.
This M1 is a great example of a rare car, an incredible piece of BMW history
which has partially been brought back into the spotlight after concept drawings
of a 2012 M1 Hommage surfaced. It now awaits the next chapter in its storied
life, a car guaranteed to turn heads and raise questions from any car
enthusiast wherever it is seen.
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