The BMW 1 Series M Coupe has been replaced by the new M2 coupe, but it has stopped tuning company Alpha-N Performance from coming up with a potent performance kit for the original.
Even in standard trim the 1 Series M Coupe was a feisty little goer, featuring an earlier iteration of BMW’s 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six engine feeding 250kW to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual.
Alpha-N has devised a tuning package that adds a bigger turbocharger, intercooler, a custom exhaust system, higher-flowing fuel pump, and an overhauled injection system with water-methanol injection, while also tinkering with the engine’s computer to manage it all.
As a result, the 3.0-litre engine now produces 420kW of power and a whopping 734Nm of torque (up from 500Nm). From the BMW factory the 1 M could perform 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds. With this package you could expect that figure to drop below the 4.0-second mark.
It doesn’t stop there either. To ensure the rest of the car is up to the task of performance driving, the German firm has also fit a lighter flywheel for a freer-spinning engine character, along with a complete Ohlins coilover suspension package.
Lastly, the 1 M is given as set of dished mesh-style alloy wheels, bespoke bucket seats, and various BMW M Performance aero trimmings for the exterior such as the rear lip spoiler. Overall, we think, and we’re sure you’ll agree, this would be a bag of fun to drive around.
