This BMW M1 Race Car Could Be The Ultimate Barn Find Of 2015

It’s pretty rare to stumble upon a prototype production car that has been hidden away and forgotten about. Rarer still to find a vintage car with racing pedigree. Well, it turns out that one lucky individual has found a vehicle that covers both bases. According to the eBay listing, the seller found this BMW M1 in a German garage, and it just so happens to be one of the first prototypes built by Lamborghini, before BMW took control of the project. This particular car was then later converted into racing spec to compete in the iconic Procar BMW M1 Championship - potentially making it a very sought after classic.

The Procar championship was a one-make series for the M1 which ran from 1979 to 1980. The series was primarily designed as a marketing exercise (which also helped the manufacturer to meet government regulations) to get BMW’s new supercar into the public’s consciousness. Procar took place as a support race for the Formula 1 Championship and allowed drivers from different disciplines to race against each other, creating some memorable battles. Niki Lauda won the inaugural championship in 1979 and Nelson Piquet took the crown in 1980. Unfortunately, even though the racing was close, Procar didn’t continue on into 1981 as the championship had already served its purpose.

Only a limited number of race cars were ever produced, the majority being developed by Ron Dennis’ Project Four Racing. The cars were heavily modified and featured 470bhp straight-six (BMW M88) motors, revised bodywork, and exquisite Campagnolo wheels. This particular barn find looks to be in a pretty bad shape, but it would be well worth restoring, because in recent years we’ve seen road cars sell for over £400,000. This might be one of the reasons why the seller took the listing down before the bidding had ended. There is speculation that the car has been sold privately to another bidder. Whatever the case, we just hope it goes to a good home, and receives a well deserved restoration.

What’s been your favourite barn find of 2015?

Source: FoxNews.