Report: BMW Planning New M1 (But Not The One You're Thinking Of)
As it stands, the BMW 135i is a potent little machine with its 300-horsepower, twin-turbocharged inline-six. But what about an M version? Sources inside of BMW are now reporting that a 1-Series M might not be too far off, and that the M1 moniker could possibly be brought back, much to the dismay of original M1 enthusiasts.
Speculation suggests that a new M-badged 1-Series would use the same twin-turbo six as the 135i but that power could be increased to around 330 horsepower. A source at BMW's M division says, "We're looking at ways to attract new customers to the brand, and an entry-level model is part of those plans." Naturally, a new "M1" would be priced under the current M3, so the mid-$40K price range is probably as good a guess as any.
Consider our interest piqued.
+ RPMgo.com: BMW to create M model based on 1 Series, might bring M1 badge back
- Discuss (4 comments)
- Digg It
- Del.icio.us
- StumbleUpon
Comments
The Stig
And the dilution continues.......
mcordero
All that for just 30 HP more? You know what else you can get for $40k? Shelby Cobra GT500, Chevrolet Camaro SS, and Dodge Challenger SRT8. They're better, prettier, and, by gods, people like them more.
bmg123
I would be more excited if they made an effort to make an M1 that was as light as possible, even using a 4 cylinder engine. The original E30 M3 had a 4 cylinder, even though there was also an E30 325i available with an inline 6. So make this M1 with a turbo 4 cylinder with over 300 horsepower. That should not be too hard to do, if Suburu and Mitsubishi can produce such an engine. Then make the car as light as possible with a carbon fiber roof, with composite or aluminum used wherever possible in the body and suspension. Make it the lightest BMW in the range, at under 2800 pounds, with the most engaging and involving driving experience. That would be the best way to introduce new customers to the M brand.
marryou
UGG Bailey Button
UGG Classic Short
UGG Classic Tall
UGG Knightsbridge
UGG Mayfaire Boots
UGG Classic Cardy
UGG Classic Mini
UGG Coquette Slipper
UGG Layback
UGG Lo Pro Button