BMW plans to offer a high-performance version of its U.S.-bound 1-Series coupe called the M1, according to a new report by Germany’s AutoBild magazine. The car would come equipped with the same motor used in the E46 M3 and the new Z4M, the report says.
The engine would deliver 343 horsepower and provide a zero to 62 mph time of 5.2 seconds.
With the 1-Series coupe’s design all but fully revealed by recent spy photos, it’s easy to guess how an M1 might look. AutoBild‘s illustration shows typical “M” treatments throughout, minus an expensive carbon roof.
Questionable naming
Although the M1 name seems logical enough, purists would likely be angered by its use for a range-topping 1-Series. That’s because it would be wearing the badge once held by BMW ’s mid-engine supercar, produced between 1978 and 1981. If such a vehicle is built, it will be interesting to see how BMW handles its naming.
[See full illustration: BMW M1 / AutoBild]
