Every now and then a model comes along that captivates BMW and performance car enthusiasts. It encapsulates everything drivers aspire to in a performance BMW - the beating heart of the ‘Ultimate Driving Machine.’ These models quickly establish themselves as highly sought after cars, becoming future BMW classics.
What are the hallmarks of the vehicles that will command impressive resale values 10 years on and beyond? The cars that people regret letting slip out of their grasp or not snapping up while they had the chance?
BMW M3 CSL (E46) future classic
Scarcity can help. Take the BMW M3 CSL from 2003. Only 420 RHD vehicles were ever built. High mileage examples are now changing hands for over £40,000 with the best examples touching £100,000. Not bad for a model that was deliberately stripped of frills and luxuries like air conditioning. This was all about the driving experience.
The performance-tuned straight six engine and 110 kg trimmed from the kerb weight also help. The combination delivers the refined thrills that touch the souls of BMW performance car lovers.
BMW Z4 3.0si Coupé future classic
And what can you say about the Z4 3.0si Coupé? The only non-M car on the list. It features a flawless straight six, six-speed combination once again. Many argued this engine suited this small GT car more than the more powerful 3.2 of the Z4 M Coupé. A rarer car than the much more widely seen roadster version, the BMW Z4 Coupé is a future classic that proves that special BMWs don’t always have M badges.
BMW M5 (E60n) future classic
Engines are clearly a factor for future classics. So expect to see the V10 E60 M5 become highly prized. The rare E61 Touring variant, in particular, is widely recognised as a classic of tomorrow. Nothing quite like the sound and silky power delivery of that V10! Anticipation builds the moment you press the accelerator.
BMW 1M Coupé future classic
Exclusivity, performance, and the very essence of a great BMW are embodied in the 1M Coupé. Only 450 were imported into the UK. And it’s a genuine car for those who love to drive, thanks to the 340bhp straight six engine, six-speed manual gearbox and short wheelbase.
Current BMW future classics
What of the current BMW lineup? What models are capturing the imagination of BMW buyers and creating a buzz in the same way as the vehicles above? Let’s get into which current cars are likely to be future BMW classics: the M2 CS and the M5 CS.
BMW M2 CS future classic
The M2 Coupé seems to have it all. It certainly delivers the sleek lines, handling and refined exhilaration that inspire passion in its owners - its 370bhp engine takes just 4.3 seconds to reach 62mph.
But it’s the BMW M2 CS that really stands out as the BMW future classic from the range. It’s powered by a 450 bhp engine with your choice of a six-speed manual and seven-speed auto. The manual tends to be more popular, making the six-speed engine most likely to be the future classic. Adaptive damping can be configured to Comfort, Sport or Sport+ to give you that perfect driving experience.
BMW M5 CS future classic
A super saloon done right. The BMW M5 CS has got to be up there for BMW future classic status. It’s 85 kg lighter than the M5 competition, weighing in at 1,825 kg. An astonishing 635 bhp gives unbridled power, reaching 62mph before you can blink at three seconds. And its five-seat setup has been swapped for four, with two sports bucket seats replacing the rear bench.
It’s a limited-run model with rumours suggesting only 400 are available worldwide, and will only be on sale for one year with orders starting in spring 2021.
Get yourself a future classic
Satisfy your lust for a thrilling drive with our range of new BMW M cars. Or go after a specific future classic BMW in our range of exciting used BMW cars. We’re also buying up PCP cars, so get in touch today!
