28 Apr 08 11:43
Video: BMW M1 Hommage design philosophy
This is the BMW M1 Hommage and as its name suggests, it's a modern-day take on the classic M1.
The Hommage made an appearance at the Concorso d'Eleganza 2008 di Villa d'Este this weekend and it is an official concept car to mark the 30th anniversary of the supercar that took the automotive world by storm in 1978.
The 2008 version blends the old with the new. Key elements of the original have been used to create a dramatic-looking 21st century sports car. The M1 Hommage's design clearly mimics the original and features such as the louvered rear window; the badge placement in back and even the wheel design - although exaggerated - echo the previous incarnation.
It is a modern-day car, though, and the design elements of present-day BMWs have been included. The front end is where the Hommage differs most. Double headlights replace the pop up lights on the M1 - safety legislation put the kibosh on those - and now, at the back, there's the seemingly obligatory diffuser, so prevalent on modern-day supercars. The BMW kidney grille is a departure and could point to new design for future BMW models.
Don't expect the M1 to appear on the roads at any time: this is strictly a demonstration of BMW's design expertise - and history.
Gallery: BMW M1 Hommage
Video: BMW M1 Hommage design philosophy
