Rare ONES - When it comes to legendary and exclusive car models crafted by the renowned German automaker BMW, the BMW M1 E26 undoubtedly stands out as an iconic sports car. Produced by BMW from 1978 to 1981, this masterpiece holds a unique position in the realm of automotive history. Let's delve into the captivating tale of the BMW M1 E26, a vehicle that embodies precision, performance, and innovation.
The BMW M1 E26 undoubtedly stands out as an iconic sports car produced by BMW from 1978 to 1981, and holds a unique position in the realm of automotive history. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
In the late 1970s, a fascinating collaboration between Italian car manufacturer Lamborghini and BMW began to take shape. The objective was to create a production version of a remarkable racing car, primarily for homologation purposes.
However, the road to automotive excellence is often paved with intriguing twists and turns. As conflicts marred the collaboration, BMW took matters into its own hands and embarked on the journey of creating an exceptional sports car that would leave an indelible mark on the industry.
Initially, the BMW M1 E26 emerged from a captivating collaboration between Italian carmaker Lamborghini and BMW, aimed at creating a production version of a remarkable racing car for homologation. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The result of this endeavor was none other than the BMW M1 E26. This remarkable vehicle marked several firsts for BMW. Notably, it was the first mass-produced mid-engined car in the company's history with only 453 units were ever built, and is only three to ever be painted in its Polaris Silver paint job. Not only that, the BMW i8 hybrid sports car following suit much later then.
The BMW M1 E26 crafted under the meticulous guidance of the BMW Motorsport division, the M1 was intended for special homologation, specifically for the world of competitive car racing. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Crafted under the meticulous guidance of the BMW Motorsport division, the M1 was intended for special homologation, specifically for the world of competitive car racing. Its distinctive fiberglass body, a design masterpiece by Giorgetto Giugiaro, was inspired by the iconic BMW Turbo concept car of 1972.
The BMW M1 E26 powered by a potent M88 inline six-cylinder engine, capable to churn out of 273 horsepower (204 kW) at 6,500 rpm, accompanied by a peak torque of 330 Nm (243 lb.ft) at 5,000 rpm in the road-legal version. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Under the hood, the BMW M1 housed the potent M88 inline six-cylinder engine, boasting a displacement of 3,453 cc. Equipped with Kugelfischer-Bosch mechanical fuel injection and a Magneti-Marelli ignition system, this engine was a true marvel of engineering.
The BMW M1 E26 could effortlessly accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.2 seconds, ultimately reaching a top speed of 162 mph or 260 km/h. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The powertrain featured a twin-cam configuration, with an impressive 4 valves per cylinder. The result? A formidable power output of 273 horsepower (204 kW) at 6,500 rpm, accompanied by a peak torque of 330 Nm (243 lb.ft) at 5,000 rpm in the road-legal version.
This engine setup endowed the M1 with a breathtaking performance. It could effortlessly accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.2 seconds, ultimately reaching a top speed of 162 mph or 260 km/h. In the transmission department, the M1 was paired with a finely-tuned 5-speed manual gearbox from ZF Friedrichshafen. This combination of power and precision set the M1 apart as a true marvel of automotive engineering. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | | BMW | WIKIPEDIA | ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
This engine setup endowed the M1 with a breathtaking performance. It could effortlessly accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.2 seconds, ultimately reaching a top speed of 162 mph or 260 km/h. In the transmission department, the M1 was paired with a finely-tuned 5-speed manual gearbox from ZF Friedrichshafen. This combination of power and precision set the M1 apart as a true marvel of automotive engineering. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | | BMW | WIKIPEDIA | ]
