BMW 1M (2012)

The BMW 1M was launched in 2011 as a final, limited production run out of the first generation 1-series. Whilst it was easy to overlook as just an expensive 1-series, it undercut its elder brother – the M3 - as well its closest competitors, such as the Boxster S, by some margin. It was one of the first BMW M cars to use a turbocharged power plant, gaining mixed opinions prior to its launch.

That said, borrowing its engine from the Z4 sDrive35is, the lightly reworked 3.0 litre twin turbo straight offered 340hp and up to 369lb ft of torque with an over-boost function. Even with 80bhp fewer than the M3 of the time, it offers much greater torque and as a result the 0-60 times are remarkably similar. In gear, the 1M holds its own with readily-available low down torque to combat the high revving top end of the E92 M3.

Offered solely with a 6-speed manual gearbox and host of other borrowed parts, including the locking differential, wheels, brakes and the majority of the suspension setup from the well loved and highly regarded E92 M3, which all help to deliver the full M-car experience. Additionally, the 1M saw significant bodywork changes. The arches, flared out to accommodate the larger wheels and brakes, ensures the car stands out amongst lesser 1-series and its competitors.

With just 450 units supplied new to the UK at launch, the 1M is a rare car, especially as several have since been exported. Offered in just three colours from the factory, with a limited number of options inside the car too. Today they have become highly sought after as they are often viewed as the true successor to the M3 name.

This example offered today is presented in Alpine White and features desirable options such as satellite navigation, USB audio interface, Bluetooth and BMW Assist. It has covered just under 7,400 miles from new and is also enhanced by an Akrapovič exhaust including Sound Kit and carbon fibre tips.

This 1M was supplied new to its first keeper, Mr J Rooney, on the 24th of March 2012 via BMW Sytner High Wycombe. Having gone through its pre-delivery check on the 9th of March that year, the car was also first registered on the 24th.

From new it is clear that there was little expense spared, benefitting from the options below, in addition to standard equipment:

• Professional Nevigation-System with iDrive
• Professional Media Package
• Harmon Kardon Audio
• Bluetooth phone prep + telematics
• USB Audio Interface
• Windscreen with grey shade band
• Sun protection glass
• Exterior mirrors folding, auto dimming
• Electric seats
• Seat heating
• Adaptive headlights
• High-beam assist
• CD-changer
• BMW Performance carbon fibre rear spoiler
• BMW Performance steering wheel
• BMW Performance carbon fibre mirror caps
• BMW Performance black kidney grilles
• Akravpovic Exhaust including carbon fibre tips and remote sound kit

The car would remain well looked after by Sytner of High Wycombe, seeing regular servicing. In 2018, it was then looked after by BMW Vines of Gatwick. In 2016, the original owner re-registered the car in his name, which added a misleading additional registered keeper to the vehicle's history.

Passing to its current keeper in April of 2021, the car has covered only a few hundred miles since and has continued to be carefully maintained. Most recently, the car was subject to its annual service, performed by JCT600 BMW of Leeds, at 7,362 miles.

This wonderful example of BMW’s highly regarded 1M is available to view at our showrooms just outside London immediately, showing just 7,400 miles from new and accompanied by its original book pack and order form.

• Front end PPF installed
• Recent annual service in June 2023
• Just one former keeper
• Fitted with the Akrapovič exhaust including Sound Kit and carbon fibre tips including additional desirable upgrades
• Just 7,400 miles from new