The 1979 BMW M1 remains a landmark achievement as the only mid-engined production car ever developed by the brand’s motorsport division. This specific chassis, number 1101, has been under the care of its original owner since its delivery in Germany. It represents a rare opportunity to acquire a vehicle with a clear, documented history that began at the very dawn of the M1 production run.
Giugiaro Styling and Pearlescent White Finish
The fiberglass bodywork was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, featuring sharp angles that defined the supercar aesthetic of the late seventies. Originally finished in white, this car now wears a pearlescent white coat applied at the owner’s dealership in the early eighties. Consequently, the finish accentuates the iconic flying buttresses and rear window louvers that give the car its unmistakable silhouette.
Cockpit Sophistication and Checker Pattern Details
Inside the low-slung cabin, the bucket seats are upholstered in a combination of black leather and checked cloth inserts. This specific material choice was a hallmark of the road-going models, balancing luxury with a sport-oriented texture. Furthermore, the cockpit remains equipped with a period-correct Becker cassette stereo and air conditioning to ensure comfort during extended highway journeys.
Advanced Chassis and Independent Suspension Setup
The Dallara-designed spaceframe provides a rigid foundation for the car’s independent suspension featuring unequal-length A-arms at every corner. Height-adjustable Bilstein shock absorbers allow the driver to fine-tune the car’s stance and handling response for different environments. These mechanical components work together to provide the balanced mid-engine dynamics that made the M1 a racing legend.
M88 Engine Performance and Technical Specs
The heart of this 1979 BMW M1 is the 3,453cc M88 inline-six engine, which utilizes a sophisticated dry-sump lubrication system. This powerplant features six individual throttle bodies and produces a factory-rated 277 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a ZF five-speed manual transaxle with a distinctive dog-leg shift pattern and a limited-slip differential.
Summary of the BMW M1 Road Car
This 1979 BMW M1 is one of only 399 road-going examples ever produced, making it a cornerstone of any high-tier automotive collection. Its single-owner provenance and low original mileage distinguish it from many other survivors in the current market. It stands as a functional and beautifully maintained tribute to the era when BMW first challenged the world’s most elite supercar manufacturers.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
