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A Closer Look2 March 2024 by Andreas 409 Viewed

The BMW Nazca M12 project by Italdesign

BMW Nazca M12

In the dynamic landscape of automotive design and engineering, the early 1990s saw the emergence of a groundbreaking collaboration between two industry giants Giorgetto Giugiaro’s Italdesign and BMW. The result of this union was the BMW Nazca M12, a vehicle that not only pushed the boundaries of aesthetics but also showcased technological innovations that set it apart from its contemporaries.

Background and Genesis of the Nazca Project

The Nazca project’s origins can be traced back to 1990 when the workload of the seasoned Giorgetto Giugiaro prompted him to pass the torch to his son, Fabrizio. At the tender age of 25, Fabrizio found himself at the helm of a project that would redefine the intersection of form and function in automotive design. The Nazca M12 made its debut in 1991 at the Tokyo Motor Show, revealing a design influenced by the Bugatti ID 90 concept unveiled a year prior.

The Bugatti ID90

As Fabrizio Giugiaro stepped into the role of lead designer, a unique dynamic unfolded during the collaboration with BMW. Recollections of bi-weekly meetings with a room full of 15 German engineers underscored the gravity of the project. The Nazca M12 was conceptualized even before the BMW 850, utilizing a pre-production engine that was still in the experimental phase.

The Aesthetic Marvel: Design Philosophy and Inspirations

The Nazca M12’s aesthetic appeal drew inspiration from the sleek lines and aerodynamic features of Group C race cars. This influence permeated every aspect of the design, from the pronounced curves to the streamlined silhouette. The 12-cylinder BMW engine, placed centrally, became both a visual centerpiece and a testament to the collaboration’s commitment to performance.

BMW Nazca M12

The BMW 12-cylinder engine, a technological marvel in its own right, was shrouded in secrecy during its development. An engineer, bound by confidentiality, constructed the engine in his own home. This clandestine approach not only highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the project but also added an air of mystique to the Nazca M12.

One of the Nazca M12’s defining features was its complete carbon fiber construction. Italdesign’s bold decision to utilize this lightweight yet robust material marked a paradigm shift in automotive manufacturing. The monocoque chassis, crafted from a single carbon fiber piece, contributed to the car’s svelte weight of 1,100 kg.

BMW Nazca M12

The gull-wing door mechanism, initially perceived as a theatrical touch, was a functional solution to the car’s low height. The glass engine cover, providing a mesmerizing view of the 5.0-liter V12 engine shared with the BMW 850i (Rumors suggest that its design is credited to Pininfarina, leading to alterations to accommodate the Ferrari 456 – read the story), added a layer of sophistication to the Nazca M12’s exterior.

Innovations Beyond Aesthetics

The BMW Nazca M12 was not merely a visual spectacle; it was a technological tour de force. It boasted the distinction of being the first car to feature ABS, anti-skid, and an adjustable suspension system: a testament to its commitment to both safety and performance. These innovations showcased the foresight and engineering acumen that characterized the collaboration between Italdesign and BMW.

The incorporation of BMW components into the interior of the Nazca M12 by Italdesign served a dual purposeç demonstrating the adaptability of German engineering and conveying the feasibility of mass production to BMW. By seamlessly integrating elements from BMW’s E36 series, such as the climatizer and onboard computer, into the Nazca M12, Italdesign showcased the versatility of BMW’s technology. This strategic utilization not only illustrated the seamless compatibility of German engineering components within the Nazca M12 but also sent a clear message to BMW regarding the ease of mass-producing this collaborative masterpiece. Moreover, the collaborative synergy extended beyond the E36 series, with Italdesign sourcing additional components from BMW’s existing lineup. Headlights and indicators, for instance, were borrowed from the BMW Z1 and the BMW GS80 motorbike, further emphasizing the collaborative bond between Italdesign and BMW. These choices were not arbitrary; instead, they were deliberate selections aimed at demonstrating the practicality and ease with which the Nazca M12 could be integrated into BMW’s existing production frameworks.

Evolution of the Nazca: The C2

A year after the Nazca M12’s debut, the evolution continued with the introduction of the Nazca C2 in 1992. This variant featured a redesigned front, relocating the headlamps beside the kidney grille, and a modified engine. Notably, the involvement of German manufacturer Alpina in the project added a new dimension to the Nazca C2’s performance capabilities.

Alpina’s contribution to the Nazca C2 included a modification of the engine, resulting in an additional 49 horsepower. This enhanced engine, shared with the Alpina B12 5.0, elevated the Nazca C2’s performance to new heights. The C2 also featured fixed racing seats and three rear spoilers, signaling its race-inspired status.

Beyond aesthetic modifications, the Nazca C2 boasted a claimed weight reduction of 100 kg compared to its predecessor. This reduction, coupled with the performance enhancements, transformed the driving dynamics of the Nazca C2, making it a worthy successor to the original M12. Also a Spider version was made.

Legacy and Limited Production

Despite the groundbreaking design and technological advancements, the Nazca M12 remained a rare gem in the automotive landscape. Originally intended as the official successor to the BMW M1, only three units were produced, each becoming a collector’s item. The original showcar is part of the Giugiaro Collection.

Today, these limited-edition vehicles stand as a testament to the indomitable spirit of collaboration between two automotive powerhouses. The BMW Nazca M12, a symphony of artistry and engineering excellence, continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike with its enduring legacy. Its rarity, coupled with its technological innovations and avant-garde design, ensures that the Nazca M12 remains a coveted piece in automotive history.

Conclusions

The BMW Nazca M12 stands as a testament to the limitless possibilities that emerge when Italian creativity intertwines with German precision. Its design, influenced by Group C racing, pushed the boundaries of conventional aesthetics. The use of carbon fiber and the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies showcased a commitment to innovation. The Nazca C2, with its evolution, added another layer to the legacy, solidifying the collaborative efforts between Italdesign and BMW.

the author

Andreas

Italian classic car enthusiast with German roots. Renowned as a respected figure in the classic car community, he serves as a jury member at various international concours d'elegance, including the Classic Gala Schwetzingen and Mantova. As a content creator, Andreas passionately shares his profound knowledge and appreciation for vintage automobiles. His heart beats for cars designed by Giovanni Michelotti, showcasing his discerning taste and dedication to preserving the timeless elegance of automotive history.

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The BMW M1 holds a unique place in automotive history. As the first production car from BMW’s Motorsport division, the M1 was intended to showcase the company’s engineering prowess and racing pedigree. However, despite its striking looks, impressive performance, and significant impact on the BMW brand, the M1’s journey was fraught with challenges, including financial turmoil, production delays, and regulatory hurdles. Today, the M division has evolved into a symbol of high-performance street cars, but the M1’s legacy remains one of both triumph and failure.

The Birth of BMW Motorsport

In 1972, BMW established its Motorsport Division, known as “M,” with the goal of advancing the brand’s competitive edge in the world of motorsports. Prior to this, BMW’s racing efforts were fragmented, with various teams involved in different categories but lacking a unified structure. This all changed when Bob Lutz, BMW’s head of sales and marketing, spearheaded the formation of BMW Motorsport. The division’s primary mission was to build competitive race cars and elevate the brand’s reputation, particularly in touring car racing.

BMW’s first major success in the motorsport arena came in 1973 with the BMW 3.0 CSL, which dominated the European Touring Car Championship. This victory cemented BMW’s position in the racing world. However, as the division grew, it became apparent that creating race cars from existing production models was unsustainable in the long run. The company needed a purpose-built race car, one that would push the boundaries of performance. This vision led to the creation of the BMW M1, a car that would become a defining symbol for BMW Motorsport.

Michelotti and the BMW Turbo Concept

Alongside the creation of the M division, BMW was developing the BMW Turbo, a concept car that would become a landmark in automotive design and technology. Designed by Paul Bracq, the Turbo E25 introduced bold new features, such as a mid-mounted engine, gullwing doors, and retractable headlights, marking a radical departure from BMW’s previous designs. The car represented a vision of the future, combining performance with cutting-edge safety features, and was intended as a technology showcase for the brand.

Initially, BMW contracted Carrozzeria Michelotti, to assemble the Turbo prototype. Giovanni Michelotti, famous for his work with a variety of automotive brands, established a 10,000-square-meter workshop dedicated to the Turbo project. Michelotti built two BMW Turbo prototypes in total, with one being showcased at the 1972 Frankfurt Motor Show. This partnership underscored BMW’s ambition for the car and its desire to create something truly revolutionary.

However, the timing of the project was unfortunate. The 1973 oil crisis caused a global economic downturn, dramatically increasing fuel prices and severely affecting the automotive industry, particularly for performance cars like the BMW Turbo. The crisis placed enormous financial strain on car manufacturers, and BMW was forced to reconsider its plans, including the costly decision to move forward with the Turbo prototype.

The Fallout and the Shift to Italdesign

As the crisis deepened, BMW was unable to fulfill its contract with Michelotti, and the planned collaboration was put on hold. Financial constraints led the company to reevaluate its spending, and resources allocated to the Turbo project were reduced. Michelotti’s specially built workshop, which had been prepared to assemble the car, remained underutilized as BMW shifted its focus.

However, the end of the oil crisis opened up new possibilities. Italdesign, the renowned design and engineering firm led by Giorgetto Giugiaro, came to BMW’s aid. In the years following the crisis, Italdesign purchased Michelotti’s workshop, which would become the production base for the BMW M1. Giugiaro’s expertise in design and engineering played a pivotal role in transforming BMW’s ambitious race car project into a road-going reality.

Giugiaro’s task was to refine the BMW Turbo E25 concept into a production car that could both meet the demands of motorsport and appeal to the consumer market. His design for the M1 retained the sharp, angular lines and futuristic profile of the Turbo, but with refined proportions to suit both racing needs and road-going practicality. The M1’s mid-engine layout, wide stance, and low roofline emphasized its racing pedigree, while its aggressive, sleek design ensured it would stand out as a supercar.

A Race Car for the Road

The BMW M1 was originally conceived as a Group 5 race car, competing against purpose-built machines like the Porsche 935. The project aimed to blend motorsport engineering with production cars, creating a race-bred vehicle that could also be sold to the public. To achieve this, BMW enlisted Lamborghini, to help with the development of the M1. Despite Lamborghini’s expertise in high-performance road cars, it lacked experience in motorsport, which ultimately led to complications during the project.

In the early stages, Lamborghini was tasked with developing the chassis and body of the M1, while BMW would provide the engine. However, Lamborghini’s financial troubles soon became apparent. The company was experiencing significant cash flow issues, and it ultimately misappropriated funds intended for the M1 project. In a dramatic turn of events, BMW was forced to reclaim the project’s components and tooling from Lamborghini, a move that involved a late-night raid to retrieve the M1’s parts. This disruption delayed the project and ultimately led BMW to take full control of the M1’s development.

The Engineering Challenges

Despite the setbacks, the M1 took shape as a highly capable performance car. The vehicle was powered by the M88 engine, a 3.5-liter, straight-six unit that produced 277 horsepower in its road-going form. This engine, derived from the racing program, provided the M1 with impressive performance, allowing it to rival other supercars of the era, such as the Lamborghini Countach and Ferrari 512 BB.

The M1 featured a mid-engine layout, which contributed to its excellent handling characteristics. The car’s design was primarily focused on its racing capabilities, making it relatively raw and unrefined for a road car. It lacked amenities such as power steering, and the cockpit was cramped, with the steering wheel offset to the right to accommodate the center-mounted engine. Despite these compromises, the M1’s performance on the road was outstanding, with acceleration and handling that earned it widespread praise from automotive journalists.

The Racing Struggles and ProCar Series

One of the most significant challenges the M1 faced was its inability to compete in mainstream racing. To homologate the M1 for Group 5 racing, BMW needed to produce 400 road cars. However, production delays meant that only 200 units were built in the first two years, preventing the car from racing in most major events.

In response, BMW created the ProCar Series, a one-make racing championship exclusively for the M1. The ProCar Series was unique in that it featured Formula One drivers competing against privateer M1 owners, creating an exciting spectacle at Formula One race weekends. Although the series generated interest and the M1 proved competitive in this setting, it was not enough to elevate the car into mainstream motorsport. Furthermore, the M1’s performance in ProCar did little to resolve its commercial issues.

Commercial Challenges and Production Woes

The M1 was also a commercial disappointment. Originally, BMW had intended to sell the M1 for around 100,000 Deutsche Marks, placing it in direct competition with supercars like the Lamborghini Countach. However, due to the disruptions caused by Lamborghini’s financial troubles and the increased cost of production, the M1’s price climbed to 113,000 Deutsche Marks. Even with this increase, the car was difficult to sell. BMW was only able to produce 399 M1s, well below the original goal of 1,000 units, making it a rare and expensive model.

Despite its high performance and exotic status, the M1 was a hard sell. Its design was too closely aligned with its racing origins, and its lack of creature comforts and high price point made it less appealing to the typical supercar buyer. Additionally, the car’s raw nature, with its lack of power steering and awkward driving position, alienated many potential customers. In the end, the M1’s commercial failure contributed to its relatively low production numbers and limited legacy as a production car.

Legacy and the Evolution of the M Division

Although the M1 was a commercial and racing disappointment, it laid the foundation for the success of BMW’s Motorsport division. The lessons learned from the M1 project helped shape future BMW M cars, starting with the iconic E30 M3. The E30 M3, developed as a more practical and accessible performance car, became a massive success in both motorsport and sales, marking the beginning of a new era for BMW M.

The M1 also solidified the link between BMW’s racing heritage and its high-performance street cars. Today, the M badge is synonymous with powerful, driver-focused vehicles, but it all traces back to the M1. The M1’s legacy is less about its financial success and more about its role in shaping the identity of BMW M as a division dedicated to performance engineering and motorsport excellence.

Conclusion

The BMW M1’s story is one of ambition, innovation, and hard lessons learned. It was a car ahead of its time, a race car designed for the road, and a symbol of BMW’s commitment to motorsport. While it never reached the commercial success BMW had hoped for, it played a crucial role in the development of the M division and set the stage for future performance cars. The M1 may not have been the financial success BMW wanted, but its influence on the brand and its impact on the automotive world cannot be overstated. Today, the M1 remains a revered classic, a testament to BMW’s racing heritage and the trials and triumphs of the M division.

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