According to marque experts, this car is one of two BMW M1 models produced in black. It is believed to be largely original and is in exceptional condition for an unrestored car of the 1980s.

In the late 1970s, Lamborghini collaborated with BMW in an attempt to create the ultimate production performance car in sufficient numbers for homologation. Famed Italian auto designer Giorgetto Giugiaro was instrumental in creating the legendary design inspired by the 1972 BMW Turbo show car. Lamborghini withdrew from the partnership in April 1978, and BMW went on to complete the M1 itself, launching it at the Paris Auto Show that same year.

The M1 featured a 3.5-litre, twin-cam, six-cylinder motor with mechanical fuel injection and was the only mid-engined BMW to be mass-produced. Deemed worthy to take on Porsche in the FIA Group 4 (sports car) category, the M1 packed 277 hp, offered a top speed of 162 mph, and became extremely popular with speed-seeking sports car enthusiasts. In 2004, Sports Car International placed the M1 on its list of Top 10 Sports Cars of the 1970s. Despite its desirability, only around 400 road versions were built between 1978 and 1981, making the M1 one of BMW’s rarest production models.

Originally delivered to the UK, this car was imported to the US, then purchased and owned for at least 14 years by The Shelton Trust of Houston, Texas.

The current owner acquired the car from The Shelton Trust in July 2009 and has driven it sparingly. When not on the road, it is housed in a climate-controlled space and maintained by expert mechanics in the Houston area along with other cars in the consignor’s prestigious collection of sporting automobiles. Purchased by the current owner as an authentic and unrestored example, the M1’s condition is a testament to the dedication of meticulous owners who have driven and maintained the car with exceptional care over the years. It comes with factory documentation, service records, tools, and jack.

BMW M1s are highly sought after by erudite sports car collectors for their design, performance, and iconic wedge profile. This M1, in its unadulterated condition and rare color, is both distinct and striking, and should make the most astute collectors take notice.