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BMW M1

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BMW M1: BMW M1: The Supercar That Launched M
Photo: Calreyn88 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

BMW M1: The Supercar That Launched M

The BMW M1 is BMW's only purpose-built mid-engined supercar, a late-1970s design by Giugiaro powered by a straight-six engine that laid the foundation for the entire BMW M performance division.

Developed with input from Lamborghini before BMW brought production in-house, the M1 combined striking Giugiaro styling with a genuine mid-engine supercar layout, unlike anything else BMW had built before or since.

Its straight-six engine, mounted amidships, gave the M1 strong performance and a distinctive character, and the car also had a short but memorable career in its own dedicated racing series.

Though produced in small numbers, the M1's role in establishing BMW's M performance division gives it outsized historical importance, and it remains one of the most celebrated and valuable classic BMWs.

Frequently asked questions about BMW M1

Who styled the BMW M1?
The BMW M1 was styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro, giving it its distinctive wedge-shaped supercar design.
What engine does the BMW M1 use?
A mid-mounted straight-six engine, positioned amidships for balanced supercar handling.
Was Lamborghini involved in the BMW M1's development?
Yes, Lamborghini was initially involved in development before BMW took production in-house.
Why is the BMW M1 historically important?
It served as the foundation for BMW's M performance division, which has since defined the brand's high-performance models.
Is the BMW M1 rare today?
Yes, it was produced in small numbers, making surviving examples rare and highly valued by collectors.

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