1980 BMW M1
BMW’s only mid-engine production car emerged from a convoluted international collaboration spanning four countries. Giorgetto Giugiaro’s wedge-shaped fiberglass body, manufactured by Italian specialist TIR, featured deep air intakes molded into the C-pillars and frameless doors that emphasized its exotic character.
The distinctive twin kidney grilles appeared at the front, while the rear displayed dual BMW roundels (unique among all BMW models). Campagnolo magnesium wheels and a wide stance completed the aggressive visual presence.
The 3.5-liter M88 inline-six produced 273 horsepower through mechanical fuel injection and individual throttle bodies. A ZF five-speed manual delivered power to the rear wheels through a tubular steel space-frame chassis designed by Gianpaolo Dallara.
Performance included 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds and a top speed of approximately 162 mph.
Production delays and changing Group 4 homologation rules derailed the original racing plans, leading BMW to create the Procar Championship as a Formula One support series. Final assembly took place at Baur in Stuttgart after components traveled from Italy.
Only 453 examples were built between 1978 and 1981, with 399 configured for road use.
Source
