The BMW M1 is back—but not quite in the same form as the original M1. We’re talking of course about the M version of the 1 series coupe, not a rebirth of the original 1970s mid-engined supercar. Still, this is one special pocket rocket, even out-horsepowering the original M1 by 70 bhp.
To avoid confusion, the new car is named 1 Series M Coupe. It’s BMW’s smallest two-door stuffed with a 340-bhp, 500 Nm inline-six twin-turbo engine. 0-100 km/h takes just 4.9 seconds, and top speed is a governed 250 km/h. The engine uses two relatively small turbos to minimize turbo lag, and is capable of a brief overboost to achieve that peak torque. The 3.0-liter engine’s peak torque (overboost aside) is available from 1500 to 4500 rpm. The cooling system as well as flywheel have been beefed up to cope with the additional stress. The engine is also equipped with brake-energy regeneration system to reduce fuel consumption (as if that would be on the mind of anyone behind the wheel of an M). A short-throw six-speed manual is standard.
The diminutive M tips the scales at just about 1500 kg, despite the use of aluminum for the major suspension pieces. M-branded steel brakes, 360 mm front/350 rear haul the car and can reportedly tackle track duty without fade.
In the M tradition, exterior modifications are subtle, with flared arches, 19-inch wheels, spoiler lip, and rear apron. The trademark M fender grille and quad tailpipes look comically intimidating on the small car, like Yosemite Sam with his six-shooters. White, black, and Valencia Orange are the standard color choices. The door mirrors are pinched from the M3. The interior is trimmed with Alcantara with orange stitching, with an embossed M logo on the seats.
The BMW 1 Series M debuts next year. ACC has confirmed that it will be available in the Philippines.
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