A must see for all ///M fans, this video provides a unique look into M Headquarters where prototypes are built and tested, M Design Studio responsible for designs, the M engine factory, and the M Test Center at the Nurburgring, and finally the vehicle assembly plants. Click through for this great video feature.
We have the latest planned BMW 1M Coupe launch and sale-date schedule for your reference and planning. The 1M Coupe’s official launch will take place this December 2010. World premiere at the Detroit NAIAS in January 2011. World press drives in March 2011. European Public Premiere at 2011 Geneva autoshow. European sale date begins Spring 2011. And US sales begin in Summer 2011.
This is the best 1M coupe in-car video we have seen yet. Chris Harris captures the sounds and experience from inside during a hotlap at Ascari circuit, and the 1M sounds better than in any previous clips. The driver reveals little, but does estimate a Nurburgring lap time.
BMW 1M Coupe first ride reports keep flowing in, this time from Autocar UK, which calls this a truly exciting car which feels every bit as agile as the standard M3 (at least from the passenger’s seat). Autocar reports that the 1M will be approximately 350bhp, with 6 speed manual and 7 speed DCT options, and will be lighter than the 135i.
Car Magazine shares their first ride reaction of the 1M Coupe and they share/confirm some info, most notably: expected 350hp, limited slip differential, tire sizes, 7500rpm redline, DCT transmission unlikely, suspension from M3.
Here is the first on-board video of the BMW 1M concept that we have seen. Rough translation: The driver first is saying that the interior is still not finished and that the press-man should not give it to much attention. Then the press-man says that the car goes really much better than the 135i and that it must have a powerful engine at about 350PS (345HP) as it is an M. Then the driver says that this car is more about handling than only HP.. but he was then saying that it has much power as it is expected from M but he will not reveal any specs right now. The press-man also noticed that the car handles really good and he said that he can … CONTINUED
Here are some more pictures of the 1-series M, including the first interior shots. This is still the prototype, so its subject to changes, but so for we have M3 seats, M3 steering wheel and different gauges (not sure if the two-tone dials are here to stay). Fuel cutoff appears to be at 7,000 rpm. Contrary to some reports, you can also see a proper LSD.
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Car and Driver was given a ride in the prototype 1M Coupe at the Ascari racetrack in Spain and shares that even in prototype form, it was almost everything they had hoped for. They were treated to a very fast lap which demonstrated the handling prowess of the 1M Coupe. Check out their experience.
Autobilds current issue has an exclusive on the 1M Coupe. According to Autobild, the 1M Coupe will feature 340PS, twin turbo N54 engine, 6MT standard (DCT optional). Note: these specs have NOT been officially confirmed!
Scan and translation by southlight:
Launch in June 2011 (thats for Europe I guess)
340 PS
3.0l inline 6 with two turbochargers - same engine as Z4 35is
Flared fenders front and rear
New seats and new gauges (screenshot @ http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=406297)
19 inch wheels standard (GTS wheels, IMO)
6MT standard, DCT optional
Faster than the E46 M3
Around EUR 48k (for comparison, 135i costs EUR 40k)
Rather a little Gran Turismo than a race car
Great low revv acceleration, still quite comfortable… CONTINUED
