Although the standard 1M is great, wouldn’t it be even better with a V8 engine?
The BMW 1M is regarded as one of the most powerful BMW vehicles, at least in recent times. However, there is always room to improve. Check out this example of a car with a V8 engine swapped from an -generation BMW M3.
The 1M was powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter Inline-Six. It produced 335 horsepower (250 Kilowatts) as well as 332 pound-feet (332 Newton-meters), during normal driving, and 370 lb (502 Nm), during temporary overboost periods. Six-speed manual was the only available gearbox.
The S65 4.0-liter V8 makes 414 horsepower (309 kW) & 295 lb/ft (400 Nm) respectively. Although the torque output is lower than that of the twin-turbo-inline-six model, it is still more adjustable for the driver. The machine can be rotated to the correct spot by careful use of the right foot.
This video’s host notes that the 1M’s narrow wheelbase and wide track make it great on the track. It’s so small that you feel as though the car is spinning around you behind the wheel.
This is not an authentic 1M, but a conversion from a standard 1 Series coupe. Don’t be afraid to modify such a rare car. A complete car is available for sale by the guy who built them, at around PS30,000. You can add on upgrades such as an Akrapovic exhaust or larger brakes.
This is a bargain when compared to an authentic 1M. At least, in the US, an example can easily fetch over $70,000. The BMW M Registry shows that the company only delivered 983 units in North American specification. The company also delivered 4,155 units in left-hand drive European spec and 1,204 in right-hand drive Euro-spec.