( Worldcarfans ) - Despite earlier declarations from BMW execs that the M1 name would not be reused out of respect for their modest supercar from the late 1970's, Car magazine asserts the nameplate will be revived for the range topping 1-Series Coupe.
Based upon the Giugiaro designed Turbo concept car from 1972, the M1 was released in 1978 but was unable to meet homologation requirements for competitive racing due to production delays and as a result, poor sales. However, in 1979 BMW did manage to enter the M1 into the Procar race series.
With the latest 1 Series Coupe spy photos revealing the front end, Car magazine has put together some decent computer renderings of what they think is the new M1. Expected to debut in mid-2008 the M1 will be available in coupe and convertible form with the old S54 3.2-liter in-line 6 cylinder engine from the previous generation E46 M3. Power output should be the same 343hp, 0- 62 mph in 5.2 seconds and top speed of 175 mph.