A 1980 BMW M1, previously owned by three-time Formula 1 champion Niki Lauda, will be offered at Mecum’s Kissimmee auction in January 2026 and could sell for almost $700K. With styling by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the M1 is BMW’s one true mid-engine supercar and the debut bearer of M badges.
What makes this vehicle exceptional is its origin story. Lauda didn’t purchase this M1; BMW awarded it to him for taking the 1979 M1 Procar crown. The single-make series matched F1 drivers in identical mid-engine racers and delivered frantic racing. While the track versions became canvases for legends like the famous BMW M1 Art Car by Andy Warhol, Lauda dominated the series through steady speed. Despite retiring in three of eight events, he won the championship, claiming this specific road car as his prize.
Under the Hood: M88 Power
Fitted in the engine bay is the M88/1 — a 3.5‑litre double‑overhead‑cam, 24‑valve inline‑six using mechanical Kugelfischer‑Bosch fuel injection, individual throttle bodies and dry‑sump lubrication. In road guise it delivered about 277 bhp and 243 lb‑ft and revved to 7,000 rpm.
Unique Styling and Provenance
The car features hand‑painted Motorsport tri‑color stripes signed by Walter Maurer, a scarce ProCar‑style front air dam, and only 20,350 km (roughly 12,645 miles) on the odometer.
After being imported into the United States in 1987, the car was showcased at the Hillsborough Concours d’Elegance — a sign that collectors view it as an important piece of racing history. Coming to Mecum’s Kissimmee auction in January, Lauda’s M1 is estimated between $625,000 and $675,000 — the Lauda name may add a premium at sale.
Spec sheet:
Model: 1980 BMW M1
Engine: 3.5‑litre M88 inline‑six
Power: 266 hp; 243 lb‑ft torque
Transmission: ZF 5‑speed manual
Top speed: 165 mph
Production: 1 of 399 road cars
Mileage: 12,644 miles
Notable features: ProCar‑style front air dam; hand‑painted Motorsport stripes signed by Walter Maurer; white 16‑inch Campagnolo staggered wheels; rear louvers
VIN / Serial: WBS59910004301214
Got space in your garage for a Formula 1 champion’s daily driver?
