Few modified BMWs can claim quite the level of provenance and exposure enjoyed by this extraordinary E21 Group 5 homage, built by Dorset-based Kustom Kolors. Originally a 1982 BMW 318, the car was transformed over approximately two years into a road-going interpretation of BMW's legendary Group 5 E21 racers, inspired by the Jagermeister example displayed at BMW Welt in Munich. The completed car has subsequently become one of Kustom Kolors' signature builds.

Rather than simply fitting a body kit, Kustom Kolors created a bespoke chassis to accommodate the running gear from an E39 BMW 540i, including its 4.4 litre M62 V8 and six-speed manual gearbox. The custom Group 5 bodywork features enormous widened arches, dramatic aerodynamic appendages and a huge rear wing, while Air Lift Performance suspension and 17-inch front and 19-inch rear Rotiform centre-lock wheels complete the stance. Inside, there is a roll cage, bucket seats, harnesses and a race-inspired interior.

The striking asymmetrical artwork was designed by The Syrup Room and hand-painted by Colin Ware of Kustom Kolors, deliberately avoiding replication of any existing BMW racing livery. The result is a unique and instantly recognisable interpretation of the classic BMW Art Car concept.

The car has enjoyed considerable contemporary media exposure, including features by Top Gear, Classic Driver and BMWBLOG, while BMW Group Classic itself featured Colin and Lucy Ware and the project on its Classic Heart podcast. It was also one of the most talked-about and photographed cars at Players Classic 2022.

Now forming part of the Continental Performance Collection, the car has continued to be enjoyed as intended, with its current owner recently driving it to a few shows. A spectacular piece of BMW-inspired automotive art, this is a genuine one-off with an extensively documented build, significant media provenance and the rare ability to be driven and enjoyed on the road. Consigned by Fraser Smith

Lot details
Year: 1982
Make: BMW
Model: E21 Group 5 Artcar
Registration: XVH 773Y
Chassis No: WBAAH1205C6723549
Odometer: tba

* One-off Group 5-inspired E21 with bespoke chassis
* 4 litre M62 V8, six-speed manual and Air Lift suspension
* Featured by Top Gear, Classic Driver and BMW Group Classic