Last week I was in the presence of a real automotive legend. No, it wasn't a multiple-race champion; it wasn't a legendary Formula 1 winning car from the 1950s; it wasn't a modern marvel of technological advancement or even a leader in the automotive world. What it was, however, was a one-of-a-kind BMW M1; and not just any M1 (even though they're special enough as is), this one was painted by pop artist and icon Andy Warhol.
That's right; Andy Warhol himself took a paint brush and, in just 27 minutes, created the masterpiece that is now known as the 4th and most well-known BMW Art Car of their 17 instalments in the “lineup.” Worth an estimated $20 million, this iconic M1 was only driven once in 1979 when it did a Le Mans race after Warhol changed it from dull white to the colourful creation we see today. Is it a shame that it's sat in a museum for the past 30+ years? Perhaps. Is it an icon of automotive history and BMW culture? No question there.
So, why are we talking about the M1 all of a sudden? Well, a BMW dealer in Laval, Quebec has opened a brand new “M Showroom” that's set to not only showcase these high-performing vehicles but also offer Quebecers the chance to embrace the cars they love so much.
As Canada is one of the most important markets for BMW's M brand (650 M units were sold in Canada alone last year), it seems fitting that BMW Laval would open such a section at their dealer. One of the best-performing dealers in Eastern Canada, BMW Laval is passionate about their product and their new M Series Showroom is evidence of that.
Designed by a local artist, the M Series Showroom is a real show-stopper. With unique mirrored wall decals, that include a larger-than-life “M” badge and ceiling lights in the classic, 3-tone M colours, the room (sans M cars) is a sight to see. Now, imagine it full of Ms and the affect is almost too much to handle for the BMW enthusiast.
So, what does the Andy Warhol M1 car have to do with BMW Laval's M Series Showroom? Well, it was there to celebrate the dealer's inaugural opening of the section. In town for one night only, the Andy Warhol M1 had everyone's attention the moment the silk sheet was removed.
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| Photo: Colin Styker |
That's right; Andy Warhol himself took a paint brush and, in just 27 minutes, created the masterpiece that is now known as the 4th and most well-known BMW Art Car of their 17 instalments in the “lineup.” Worth an estimated $20 million, this iconic M1 was only driven once in 1979 when it did a Le Mans race after Warhol changed it from dull white to the colourful creation we see today. Is it a shame that it's sat in a museum for the past 30+ years? Perhaps. Is it an icon of automotive history and BMW culture? No question there.
So, why are we talking about the M1 all of a sudden? Well, a BMW dealer in Laval, Quebec has opened a brand new “M Showroom” that's set to not only showcase these high-performing vehicles but also offer Quebecers the chance to embrace the cars they love so much.
As Canada is one of the most important markets for BMW's M brand (650 M units were sold in Canada alone last year), it seems fitting that BMW Laval would open such a section at their dealer. One of the best-performing dealers in Eastern Canada, BMW Laval is passionate about their product and their new M Series Showroom is evidence of that.
Designed by a local artist, the M Series Showroom is a real show-stopper. With unique mirrored wall decals, that include a larger-than-life “M” badge and ceiling lights in the classic, 3-tone M colours, the room (sans M cars) is a sight to see. Now, imagine it full of Ms and the affect is almost too much to handle for the BMW enthusiast.
So, what does the Andy Warhol M1 car have to do with BMW Laval's M Series Showroom? Well, it was there to celebrate the dealer's inaugural opening of the section. In town for one night only, the Andy Warhol M1 had everyone's attention the moment the silk sheet was removed.
 |
| Photo: Colin Styker |