Ronnie Fieg Transforms the 1981 BMW M1 E26 into a Kith Design Masterpiece

In a remarkable mix of automotive heritage and contemporary design, Ronnie Fieg, founder of Kith, has unveiled a meticulously restored 1981 BMW M1 E26. This project marks the third chapter in the ongoing collaboration between Kith and BMW, highlighting Fieg’s dedication to honoring BMW’s legacy while infusing it with modern aesthetics.

Restoration and Design

The restoration of the 1981 BMW M1 E26 was a collaborative effort between Fieg and BMW Classic, ensuring authenticity and precision. The vehicle is finished in Techno Violet, a rare and deep hue that gained prominence with the BMW M3 E36 in the 1990s. This color choice bridges the past and present, paying homage to BMW’s rich history. The exterior also features a collaborative Kith M-Series badge on the rear decklid, symbolizing the partnership between Kith and BMW.

Inside, the car boasts BMW Individual Black Merino Leather upholstery adorned with an all-over Kith monogram pattern. This intricate detailing extends to the seats’ middle panels and headrests, the gear shift, door inserts, and floor mats, seamlessly blending luxury with brand identity.

Performance Specifications

The BMW M1’s performance remains impressive, even by today’s standards. Equipped with a 3.5-liter inline six-cylinder petrol engine, it delivers 277 horsepower and a maximum torque of 330 Nm. The engine’s design, featuring four valves per cylinder and mechanical injection, was ahead of its time. With a top speed of approximately 165 mph, the M1 was the fastest German road sports car of its era.

Public Debut

The restored BMW M1 E26 by Ronnie Fieg will be showcased at the Kith for BMW 2024 Showcase in Miami on December 6, 2024. The event, held on the seventh floor of the 1111 Lincoln Road parking garage, will also feature Fieg’s personal collection of custom BMWs, offering attendees a unique glimpse into the intersection of automotive excellence and contemporary design.

Kith and BMW Collaboration

This restoration is the latest endeavor in the Kith and BMW partnership, which has previously produced limited-edition models like the M4 Competition x Kith and the i4 M50 by Kith. Each project reflects a harmonious blend of BMW’s engineering prowess and Kith’s distinctive design philosophy, appealing to both automotive enthusiasts and fashion aficionados.

About Ronnie Fieg and Kith

Ronnie Fieg, a native of Queens, New York, began his career in footwear and fashion at the age of thirteen. His extensive experience led to the founding of Kith in 2011, a brand renowned for innovative integration of fashion, art, and music. Kith is celebrated for its unique collaborations with iconic brands, including Giorgio Armani, Coca-Cola, Nike, Tag Heuer, and Versace, consistently pushing the boundaries of contemporary design.

Impression

The 1981 BMW M1 E26 by Ronnie Fieg exemplifies a seamless blend of classic automotive design and modern luxury. This restoration not only pays tribute to BMW’s illustrious history but also showcases the creative vision of Kith, setting a new standard for collaborative innovation in the automotive and fashion industries.