Driving a modern classic: the BMW 1M [Video]

Wouter takes a walk around the block in the BMW 1M, which also happens to be auctioned.

The BMW 1M has quickly become one of the most beloved modern BMWs. Not without reason of course, because the 1M is actually everything a sporty BMW should be. Compact, relatively light, manual transmission and of course with a straight-six under the hood. What more could you want as a BMW enthusiast?

The straight-six in question is the most powerful version of the N54, which is otherwise only found in the Z4 sDrive35. It delivers 340 hp and 450 Nm of torque. If you floor it, you even have 500 Nm of torque, thanks to the temporary overboost. Enough power to have a lot of fun in a compact bomb like this.

As Wouter rightly notes in the video, the 1 Series Coupé looks a bit unfortunate as standard, but as a 1M it suddenly fits perfectly. The flared wheel arches and thicker bumpers simply finish this car. The beautiful Y-spoke rims (also supplied under the E90 M3) complete the picture.

Those rims aren’t the only thing that’s been taken from the M3. The rear axle (including limited slip!) and the brakes are also from the M3. So the fact that the 1M is a lot wider than the standard 1 Series Coupé isn’t just for show.

The black example that Wouter drives more often is one of the fifty examples that were delivered new in the Netherlands at the time. The 1M is therefore a lot more exclusive than its successor, the M2. This car has 83,100 km on the counter and has always been neatly maintained by the dealer.

If you are interested: you can still bid on this 1M until Tuesday 20:00 via The Collectables. The car can also be admired this weekend at Wheels Mariënwaerdt, where The Collectables has its own stand.

Be sure to check out the video to see how this car drives!