BMW M1 Gruppe 5

Chassis #4301269

>From 1979 to 1981 BMW hand built 439 M1's. 400 were for street use and the remaining 39 were
prepared as PRO CAR race cars. The PRO CAR was a series
comprised solely of M1's in a Gruppe 4 configuration. All PRO CARS were identically prepared as
is any spec racer series. The series was run as a prelude to the
Formula 1 races in Europe with select number of the PRO CAR M1's driven by the noted F1 drivers
of the day. The other PRO CARS were entered by private teams. They
provided spectacular racing and entertainment for the assembled F1 fans and TV audience. 

In late 1980 the factory commissioned three M1's to be constructed in Gruppe 5 configuration.
Two were designed for European competition and one to assault IMSA in the
United States. 

This car is the M1 Gruppe 5 designated for IMSA competition. Of the two European Gruppe 5 M1's,
one was destroyed in practice and the remaining car is in Finland. This
is now one of two in the world.

The body work, much wider and aerodynamic than the Gruppe 4 M1's, is constructed of Kevlar. In
1980 this technique was on the cutting edge of lightweight, strong
material for race car construction. Powered by the famed BMW 3.5 liter six cylinder, twin
overhead cams, four valves per cylinder producing in excess of five hundred
horsepower at 9,200 rpm. Top speed would be in excess of 230mph. The massive rear tires were
15" wide and 19" in diameter. The weight of the car in race trim with the
driver David Hobbs is 2,050 lbs. 

History

Originally the Marlboro sponsored #20 PRO CAR driven by Hans Stuck. Raced in Europe in 1980.
Purchased by BMW North America in late 1980 and converted to
Gruppe 5 specification for campaigning in the United States. Ran at Daytona by David Hobbs and
by BMW Motorsport. Used extensively to develop Kevlar and Titanium
components. Complete with 650 hp engine. TRACK READY. A unique piece of BMW history! Spares
available. 

This one-of-a-kind car is currently being offered for sale. Interested parties should contact
Ray Korman at 336.275.1494 for further details.