The 1M coupe became a cult classic almost upon its launch – a rare example of a new car moving, arguably, straight to classic status without passing GO. Rabidly quick and styled in such a way as to leave even the casual observer in no doubt as to the car’s potential, the 1 series M coupe (to give it the correct name) was an immediate hit with critics and buyers alike, earning Car of the Year accolades from magazines such as Evo and Top Gear. Reviewed by Clarkson on the Top Gear TV show (who claimed it was ‘a brilliant, brilliant, brilliant car – the end’), it sold out within a week of broadcast, with all 450 units accounted for before they arrived in the showrooms. Despite being one of the first in a new generation of turbo powered M cars, it has been almost unanimously agreed to be worthy of its position in the M car hall of fame, alongside greats like the M3 CSL and the E28 M5. Within a remarkably short period of time, second hand values had exceeded the price when new, and have continued to rise ever since.
Sold with a manual only gearbox ‘option’, and producing around 340bhp with peak torque of 369 lb ft – all pushed through the superlative M limited slip differential, the 1M coupe is not for the feint hearted. This of course means that many examples have had a reasonably tough life, being driven, lets be honest, as their maker intended. But there are a few of the 450 destined for collector status, and this is one of them. Actually, it is the one. The condition of this car has to be seen to be believed. This 1M coupe has genuinely never been out in the rain – you can see from the condition of the underside, which is almost exactly as it left the factory. Our technical team – who have seen a tidy car or two – were utterly blown away by the condition of this car when they carried out our usual inspection. There was literally nothing to report.
The car is also immaculately wrapped in a high quality paint protection skin.
So, there are 1M coupes, and there is this utterly exceptional 1M coupe. Whether it’s a long-term collector car you’re looking for, or a daily driver that looks and feels like a brand new car, look no further. For more details or to book a viewing (by appointment only please) contact our showroom team on 01825 740456 or email us on sales@munichlegends.com and see what a truly concours car looks like in the flesh