Sympathetically modded to
optimise performance and handling, meet the Indonesian 1 Series M Coupé with
vibrant splashes of Hyper blue in its CRT-inspired aesthetic.
BMW
Series M Coupé Hyper Blue Limited Edition
Rumour has it that BMW originally intended to make just 2700
examples of its limited edition 1 Series M Coupé (aka 1M), a production ceiling
that had to be rapidly rethought due to overwhelming worldwide demand. Hardly
surprising, given that BMW marketed it as spiritual successor to the perennial
E30 M3, decent examples of which still make grown men go weak at the knees. By
the close of 1M production in June 2012, a total of 6309 examples, almost
two-and-a-half times the original volume, had been built.
Although the 1M had quirks compared to previous Motorsport projects,
specifically an engine without the traditional S-branded designation, it was
nevertheless a true thoroughbred. Up to 35kg lighter than any other E82 Coupé,
it featured significantly wider bodywork and track, unique bumper and side
skirt treatments, and an uprated 340hp version of the twin-turbo N54 straight-
six. On its introduction the 1M became the car world’s must-have toy. Which is
exactly what Jason K felt when he first saw the model in his local dealership
in Surabaya, Indonesia, while his E92 330i was in the workshop being serviced.
BMW 1M Side View
Though relatively new to the brand, Jason was familiar with OEM
upgrades, having equipped his 3 Series with BMW Performance double-spoke 313
alloys and M aero packages. But from its visual impact alone Jason could
immediately appreciate that the 1M was in a different league altogether. And
then, just like everybody else, he told himself that he had to get one. Student
Jason didn’t inform us how long he wrestled with the decision but with the
mental manipulation of a psychologist we reckon he may have justified its
purchase to his girlfriend by explaining the relief it would offer the
daily-driver 330i on weekends; oh… and by promising to proclaim undying love by
putting her nickname on the number plate. We should point out, however, that no
mention was made of actually handing ‘Bubbles’ the keys. It appears that love
can only stretch so far.
Immediately after ordering a brand-new 1M in fetching Alpine white,
Jason began the modifying process. A set of Volk Racing TE37SL alloys in Hyper
blue finish were sourced from Rays in Japan and arrived before the car itself,
a time difference that precipitated a further splash of products via iND
Distribution in the States.
As soon as iND heard about Jason’s choice of wheels, one of the
advisors suggested coordinating a selection of BMW Performance carbon
fibre products with an optional CRT Theme (inspired by the exclusive
limited-edition M3 CRT) accent in that same Hyper blue colour. Jason agreed
wholeheartedly with the idea, so iND approached Rays to supply a colour sample
in order to paint the subtle blue stripe across the rear blade spoiler and door
mirror covers. Matched to gloss black painted OEM kidney grilles and side
markers that delete the last bits of chrome, the external appearance may not
have strayed too far from standard but it’s achieved a look that resides
somewhere between menacing and playful.
BMW
1M Interior
That look was later exaggerated with the inclusion of KW Suspension
Variant 3 coilovers to fine-tune the chassis control and plummet the ride height.
And if you wondered how it was possible for KW to come up with an M-trumping
suspension setup so quickly after the car’s launch, the answer lies in the fact
that the E82 range shares much of its chassis and other vital elements with the
E90x range. Meanwhile, spanning the transmission tunnel to connect each side of
the bodyshell and minimize unwanted flex are a couple of CPM lower
reinforcement panels. Forged in high-quality aluminium, these panels are
normally hidden from sight but are the sort of component any self-respecting
owner would want to highlight at a show by placing a mirror under the car. Much
the same as you would with the exhaust system Jason has now fitted to this 1M.
After hours of auditioning different other vital elements with the E90x range.
Meanwhile, spanning the transmission tunnel to connect each side of the bodyshell
and minimize unwanted flex are a couple of CPM lower reinforcement panels.
Forged in high-quality aluminium, these panels are normally hidden from sight
but are the sort of component any self-respecting owner would want to highlight
at a show by placing a mirror under the car. Much the same as you would with
the exhaust system Jason has now fitted to this 1M. After hours of auditioning
different then lead into an Evolution Line titanium exhaust system that
features a larger diameter than standard, cast titanium flanges, and four
exquisitely detailed titanium tailpipes.
