Unlocking the Legend: The BMW M1 Wide Body You Didn't Know Existed
Imagine a car so rare and iconic that its mere existence excites the passion of car enthusiasts around the globe. The BMW M1, a masterpiece of engineering, has long held a place in the hearts of those who appreciate automotive excellence. Yet, there's a version of this legendary car that elevates its allure to an entirely new level: an M1 equipped with an official wide body kit.
In the secluded circles of high-end car dealerships, a gem has been hiding in plain sight. Nestled within the inventory of Sweden's distinguished dealer Motikon is an E26 M1 that encapsulates more than just automotive history; it embodies a tale of unique stewardship and personalization. Constructed in the year 1980, this vehicle's keys were initially handed over to an individual whose name might not immediately trigger recognition - Mr. Franz Reuther.
For those less familiar, Franz Reuther is better known as Frank Farian, the creative force behind the disco-pop sensation Boney M. However, this M1's legacy is not just tied to its famous owner but also to its transformation under his care. Desiring to bridge the visual aesthetics between his M1 and its track-bound sibling, the M1 Procar, Farian commissioned a wide body modification that would forever set this car apart.
Beneath the surface of this modification was the skilled craftsmanship of BMW Motorsport, who meticulously enhanced the mid-engined coupe's silhouette, granting it an appearance that even the most discerning of enthusiasts would pause to admire. The car wasn't just altered aesthetically; it became a bridge between the realms of road legality and track performance.
The tale of this M1 takes another intriguing turn with its sales history. Most recently, in November 2020, it found a new custodian. The price? A cool £382,500 - a figure that marks its value in more ways than one. Notably, at the time of sale, the odometer told a story of 90,235 kilometers, a testament to its life well-lived rather than a mere existence in seclusion.
Today, this storied M1 is seeking a new home through Motikon, with a price tag of approximately $625,000. The investment secures not only a rare piece of automotive history but also a set of Michelin Pilot Sport and Nitto NT555 G2 tires, paired with original 16-inch and 17-inch BBS wheels, respectively. The M1's journey is further accentuated by its affectionate nickname, 'BoneyM1,' a nod to its unique cultural inheritance.
The odometer now reads just under 91,000 kilometers, a number that will inevitably rise as its next owner takes the helm. This M1, an award winner at the Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance, continues to captivate and charm, proving that it's more than just a car – it's a legend reborn. Its legacy, painted not just on its chassis but in the annals of car culture, invites us to partake in its story, one that transcends mere ownership and enters the realm of stewardship over a piece of history.
Source: Shmee150 / YouTube