Guests at one of the UK’s most exclusive motor shows will have the chance to see one of the world’s rarest BMWs – thanks to a North Yorkshire car financing company.
Oracle Finance, the UK’s number one provider of funding for prestige and sports cars, is displaying a BMW M1 at this week’s exclusive Salon Privé premier “boutique” motoring event, being held in the grounds of a London stately home from September 4-6.
Earlier this year, Oracle Finance was named as Broker of the Year by Alphera Financial Services, which is part of the BMW Group Financial Services.
The very first M car, the BMW M1 was conceived to challenge Porsche in the mid-1970’s Sports Car Championship.
However, delays with development partner Lamborghini led to a late launch in 1979 yet the M1 provided huge entertainment during the two year Procar series which accompanied some Grands Prix.
Many top F1 drivers drove 450bhp racing M1s against private owners. The M1 also won its class at Le Mans on several occasions and in other great road races.
The ultimate BMW M1 was a German GT series contender which had twin turbo charges and produced 850bhp.
Oracle Finance managing director Peter Brook said: “Salon Privé is one of the most exclusive motoring events of the year, and, as our business is financing prestige and sports cars, it’s very fitting for us to be there with a BMW M1.
“Vehicle funding is a £22bn industry and despite the current economic climate we are seeing sales rise by 20 per cent, year on year.
“Only 450 of these cars were ever produced and, at the time, sold for £30,000 each. When any come on the market now a buyer can expect to pay upwards of £140,000.”
Salon Privé is a hospitality-only event appealing to discerning guests, collectors, buyers, owners and enthusiasts who prefer a more intimate and engaging experience.
It is a presentation of the very finest automotive and luxury brands as well as the rarest and most valuable of classic cars and motorcycles, all of which are beautifully displayed on the lawns of one the country’s most spectacular stately homes, Syon Park, the home of the Duke of Northumberland.