The origins of motorsport-derived road cars are often involve the craziest of stories. From last minute homologation specials to a one-off prototype-turned-road car, there are tales desperate to be told, and the BMW M1's history is no exception. A mere 399 road going examples of the M1 were made, and even fewer were treated to in-period customisation such as this example from Motikon.
First unveiled at the 1978 Paris Auto Show, the M1 was an introductory product from BMW Motorsport’s founding director Jochen Neerpasch, who had dreams of bringing the fight to Porsche’s mighty 935 in the Group 5 racing category.
Of course, stating you’re going to bring down one of Porsche’s most successful racers is one thing, actually doing it is truly another. This meant BMW Motorsport needed to call in the heavy hitters, and entrusted legendary engine designer Paul Rosche to work his magic on the 911-beater. Rosche’s creation was a true masterpiece, widely regarded as one of the finest six-cylinder engines in existence. Seemingly on a roll, BMW Motorsport then requested the delicate hands of Giorgetto Giugiaro, who designed a purposeful and yet incredibly elegant wedge-shaped supercar, bringing together what was to be one of BMW’s greatest machines.
Almost immediately, the BMW M1 was a success, despite delays due to Lamborghini’s bankruptcy, who were tasked with producing the cars. While it was a rocky path to road car success, out on the racetracks and rally stages, the M1 was a mighty competitor and a favourite among many of the sport’s greats. While the road and race car followed similar styling, the race version boasted a wide bodykit and large rear wing, something this vibrant red example was equipped with in period. It was delivered new in February of 1980 to music producer and song writer Frank Farian, most famously known for creating hit making pop acts like Boney M, Milli Vanilli and No Mercy to name a few.
During Farian's ownership the car underwent a sporty transformation with BMW Motorsport, altering the exterior styling with flared wheel arches to allow space for the far wider 17-inch diameter BBS LM wheels, which were staggered for more rear-end grip. On the inside, the cloth seat inserts were replaced with full leather. Of course, being a music lover and producer, Farian needed the best sound system in the M1, and opted for a Becker Mexico stereo, Clarion graphic equalizer and custom loudspeaker installation.
The result is a wonderfully unique example of what is already an icon of BMW’s road and racing legacy. Our CEO JP Rathgen had some words to say on the car, "Displayed at the first ever Aurora Concours in Sweden, this BMW M1 previously owned by famous producer Frank Farian, is a piece of music history The sonorous sound of this M1 engine is authentic, unlike the real voices of Milli Vanilli."
The M1 is a car rarely seen on the open road, but it's no surprise that one as dramatic in appearance as this, and with incredible backstory, has already claimed prizes. Most recently it won the Owners Choice award at the prestigious 2020 Salon Privé Concours d’Elegance, but now it could be your turn to rake in the awards with this magnificent M1.
