A piece of automotive history, the 1980 BMW M1, has surfaced for auction on Bring A Trailer. With only around 400 road-going examples produced during its two-and-a-half years of production, this rare model has become a highly sought-after collector’s item. Originally completed in June 1980 and delivered in Europe, this vehicle was imported to the U.S. in 1987 and has been under the care of its current owner since 2016.
The M1 underwent a comprehensive mechanical and cosmetic refresh before being showcased at the 2017 Hillsborough Concours d’Elegance in California. It boasts a white finish adorned with the iconic BMW Motorsport tri-color stripes and a blue leather interior. Under the hood, the car features a 3,453cc M88 straight-six engine, known for its Kugelfischer-Bosch fuel injection, six individual throttle bodies, and dry-sump lubrication, ensuring optimal engine performance.
Enthusiasts will appreciate the M1’s ZF five-speed manual transaxle, limited-slip differential, servo-assisted ventilated disc brakes, and 16” Campagnolo alloy wheels. Modern amenities such as air conditioning, power windows, and a Becker Europa cassette player blend classic design with contemporary comfort.
Developed by BMW’s motorsport division for FIA Group 5 sports car racing, the M1’s journey was complex. Initially planned as a collaboration with Lamborghini, the partnership dissolved, leading to the involvement of several Italian firms in its construction. Its Gianpaolo Dallara-designed spaceframe and Giorgetto Giugiaro-styled fiberglass bodywork speak to its Italian craftsmanship, while the assembly was completed by hand in Stuttgart, Germany.
The M1 in question has just over 13,000 miles on the odometer and has been bid up to $276,000 USD at the time of writing, with six days remaining on the auction clock.”
