BMW Concept 1 Series gets Sporty Makeover

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), the independent German company, gave its Concept 1 Series a sporty makeover as part of preparing it for its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show alongside the new BMW M3 Saloon.

This year, the Concept 1 Series features lightweight materials, optimized aerodynamics and a race-inspired interior.

The badge has been adapted from the BMW 2002 tii in the 1960s and ‘70s, which features the Alpine white colour scheme. But, the vehicle also had a model twist with a visible carbon-fibre bonnet, black and white front-to-rare decals and blue trims. The front has been redesigned to allow more air delivered to the engine and brakes. The side sills were remodeled. And, there is a carbon-fibre boot-mounted burney-flap spoiler at the rear.

Inside, the Concept 1 Series is found with sports seats that have body-colour white inserts. There are also roof lining, door linings and instrument panel.

The instrument binnacle comes with a white rev-counter that has red needle.

The Concept 1 Series is powered with new 135i 3-liter, bi-turbo inline six-cylinder engine that has 225 kW and 400 Nm of torque.

In the Tokyo Motor Show, BMW will also launch the new BMW M3 four-door Saloon featured with 4-liter V8 engine, which is also found in the two-door M3 Coupe. It will produce 313 kW at 8300 rpm, 400 Nm of torque at 3900 rpm and red-lines at 8400 rpm.

According to BMW Group Australia managing director Guenther Seemann, they are evaluating the local sales potential of the M3. He said, “If customer demand warrants we will bring the car to Australia. That said, it would be at least 12 months before this could be realized.”

In the 1990s, BMW sold a four-door sedan version of the E36 M3 overseas. Unfortunately, Australia wasn’t included.