The 1980 BMW M1 is universally recognized as BMW’s first true mid-engine supercar. Conceived initially for racing, only 399 road cars were produced during its limited two-and-a-half-year run. This particular example is exceptional due to its provenance, reading just 20,350 kilometers from new. Furthermore, it boasts an incredible tie to Formula 1 history. It was previously owned by the legendary F1 champion Niki Lauda, who received it as a trophy for winning the 1979 ProCar series. Therefore, this M1 transcends typical collector status.
Design and ProCar Styling
The M1’s wedge shape was penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro at Italdesign. Its low, dramatic profile remains instantly recognizable today. This coupe features a rare ProCar-styling front air dam. It gives the road car an even more aggressive, race-ready look. The striking white exterior is personalized with hand-painted Motorsport tri-color stripes. These artistic elements were executed and signed by Walter Maurer, effectively making this an unofficial “BMW Art Car.”
The Exclusive Interior and Features
The cabin is finished in a striking Blue leather, a sophisticated color choice against the white exterior. Power windows and air conditioning were included as luxury features. The car retains its rear louvers, adding to the period-specific exotic look. A Becker Europa stereo provides the in-car entertainment. The overall fit and finish emphasize the car’s bespoke, hand-built nature, reflecting its low-volume production status.
Proven Track and Collector History
Its connection to Niki Lauda is cemented by its history as a ProCar series trophy. Lauda’s association highlights its motorsport DNA. The M1 was imported to the USA in 1987, adding to its cross-continental life story. Its quality and significance have been recognized at major events. For example, it was featured at the 2017 Hillsborough Concours d’Elegance in California. Detailed service history further validates its careful ownership.
Chassis and Mechanical Details
The M1 rides on staggered 16-inch Campagnolo wheels, finished in white to match the body. Its mid-engine layout contributes to its excellent handling balance and low center of gravity. The highly detailed undercarriage suggests meticulous preservation over the decades. The car’s chassis was built for high-speed stability and motorsport compliance. This meticulous engineering ensures the M1 remains a rewarding machine to drive today.
Power, Engine Specs, and Performance
The power source is BMW’s renowned 3.5-liter M88/1 inline six-cylinder engine. This 24-valve unit is equipped with Bosch Motronic fuel injection, an advanced feature for its time. In road specification, it was factory rated at 266 horsepower. Power is transferred through a ZF 5-speed manual transmission, offering a direct, engaging feel. Though modest by modern standards, the engine delivered thrilling performance. It helped propel the lightweight M1 to a top speed near 160 mph, establishing its supercar credibility.
Summary
This 1980 BMW M1 is a remarkable and historically significant mid-engine coupe. As one of only 399 road cars, its rarity is compounded by its unique ProCar-style air dam and connection to Niki Lauda. The low kilometer reading and bespoke, signed artwork make this a truly special collector’s item. It stands as an important symbol of BMW Motorsport’s entry into the supercar segment, a truly iconic machine.
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Source: mecum.com
