We know what you’re thinking: that’s an odd-looking BMW M1. You’re not wrong. What’s weirder is that the history of this utterly bizarre violet wedge has largely remained a mystery – seemingly slipping through the cracks of the world of BMW enthusiasts.

Until now. Because as soon as we got a whiff of it, we had to get all Clouseau, uncovering a fascinating story of high-speed record attempts, unprecedented Eighties excess, duplicitous behaviour, and, ultimately, neglect.

So, click through and let’s begin…

Words and Photography: Rowan Horncastle