Outdated BMWs deserve a second probability, particularly when the automobile in query has its engine behind the motive force. With simply 453 items ever constructed, the M1 is exceptionally uncommon, making each surviving instance a beneficial treasure price preserving. This white E28-based supercar has had a tough life, having been concerned in a crash throughout the 2013 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. However to not fear, BMW Traditional is right here to avoid wasting the day. It’s rolling up its sleeves to carry Bavaria’s one and solely supercar again to life.
This isn’t the primary nut-and-bolt restoration carried out by the German luxurious model in recent times. KITH founder Ronnie Fieg had his personal M1 absolutely restored by BMW Traditional specialistsa mission that took a few yr, proving that perfection takes time. We’re positive the group is being simply as meticulous with this wrecked instance, one in every of solely 163 completed in white. It’s additionally a road-legal model relatively than one of many track-only Procars.
A time-lapse video exhibits BMW Traditional has already stripped down the M1 and eliminated its M88 engine. This hand-built, naturally aspirated 3.5-liter inline-six sits between the axles of the fiberglass-bodied supercar. It’s nonetheless a diamond within the tough, however the engine will roar as soon as once more, and people pop-up headlights will rise sooner relatively than later.
It will make good sense to carry the absolutely restored M1 again to the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. Whether or not it’ll be prepared in time for subsequent yr’s occasion stays to be seen. The M1 turns 50 in 2028, and we’re assured the automobile can be completed properly earlier than then. Its roots truly return even additional, contemplating BMW unveiled the Turbo idea that impressed it six years earlier.
BMW Traditional continues to fabricate components for the M1, with some saved in inventory and others constructed to order. Given the importance of this explicit automobile, and BMW’s need to see it shine once more after the unlucky crash throughout that “scenic drive” 12 years in the past, it’s probably a high precedence. We’ll be holding an in depth eye on the restoration, which ought to lead to one thing simply as spectacular as Ronnie Fieg’s Techno Violet M1.
Supply: BMW Traditional / Instagram
