BMW enthusiasts, take note. Broad Arrow Auctions, the official auction partner of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2025, is set to host a dedicated BMW-only collector car auction this May. And this isn’t just any sale – it’s a celebration of nearly 70 years of BMW greatness, taking place against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Como.
The auction, scheduled for the evening of Saturday 24 May, is part of Broad Arrow’s two-day presence at the revered Concorso. It will spotlight some of the most iconic, rare, and collectable BMW models in existence.
Let’s take a closer look at the standout cars that have already been confirmed – and why this sale is drawing global attention.
Celebrating BMW’s Legendary Heritage
For BMW, Villa d’Este is more than a venue. The marque has long been the host of this exclusive concours event, showcasing everything from its latest concept cars to its most beloved classics. So, it’s only fitting that Broad Arrow, now part of Hagerty, is honouring the brand with a dedicated auction featuring BMW collector cars only.
Joe Twyman, Broad Arrow’s VP of Sales for the EMEA Region, summed up the significance: “We’re thrilled to present an evening sale that highlights BMW’s rich legacy – from classic roadsters to motorsport legends.”
The Star Cars of the Sale
The initial line-up includes a mix of timeless classics and motorsport icons. Each one has a story – and a strong claim to being among the most sought-after BMWs ever built.
1958 BMW 507 Series II Roadster
Estimate: €2,000,000 – €2,300,000 (£1,706,438 – £1,962,167 )
This is the kind of car that stops conversations. Chassis number 70127, a BMW 507 Series II, spent nearly 50 years in the hands of its original owner in Germany. The sleek design and ultra-rare status of the 507 (with only 252 ever made) make it easy to see why many call it BMW’s most beautiful car.
This particular example has been meticulously preserved. Apart from a few tasteful updates – like a retrimmed interior and new black soft-top – it remains largely original. The current owner, clearly a purist, added only seven kilometres in seven years.
And here’s a milestone worth noting: the 507 celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2025. Expect this one to attract serious interest.
1980 BMW M1 (Frank Farian Car)
Estimate: €450,000 – €550,000 (£383,852 – £469,153)
BMW’s first true supercar, BMW M1 was born from the brand’s ambition to beat Porsche at its own game in Group 5 racing. Designed by Giugiaro and engineered by Dallara, it’s a rare mix of Italian flair and German precision.
This example is even more special. BMW Motorsport gave it a Procar-inspired makeover and delivered it to Frank Farian, the music producer behind Boney M and Meat Loaf. Think flared arches, a bold rear wing, a custom sound system, and upgraded leather seats. With fewer than 91,000 kilometres on the clock, it’s a well-kept and visually striking car with celebrity provenance.
It even picked up an award at Salon Privé in the UK and featured in Sweden’s Aurora Concours. The kind of M1 that turns heads – and wins trophies.
2000 BMW Z8
Estimate: €200,000 – €225,000 (£170,581 – £191,903)
The BMW Z8 was a modern reinterpretation of the legendary 507 – and it nailed it. Designed by Henrik Fisker, the Z8 combined retro-inspired styling with proper performance. Its 4.9-litre V8 (borrowed from the E39 M5) delivers 400hp, with 0–100 km/h in under 5 seconds.
This Italian-delivered Z8 finished in Titanium Silver features a bold two-tone red and black leather interior. Three owners have enjoyed driving it, and it has covered just over 23,000 km since new.
For collectors looking for a modern classic, few cars strike the same balance of elegance, performance, and rarity as the Z8.
1981 BMW M1 (Vijay Mallya Car)
Estimate: €475,000 – €575,000 (£405,135 – £490,426)
The second M1 in the sale also has a star-studded backstory. Vijay Mallya, co-founder of the Force India Formula One team, purchased it after it was first delivered to the United Arab Emirates. It later travelled with him across Dubai, the UK, and even Alaska.
Owned by Mallya for nearly three decades, this M1 was later acquired by a Dutch enthusiast in 2016. With its colourful history and strong provenance, it stands out as another exceptional example of BMW’s iconic mid-engined supercar.
A Historic First for Broad Arrow in Europe
This auction marks Broad Arrow’s first-ever European sale and is being held in partnership with BMW AG. With 70 top-tier collector cars set to go under the hammer across two days, the BMW-only auction is shaping up to be the centrepiece of the weekend.
The setting? Villa Erba, just steps from the Concorso lawn at Villa d’Este, with views of Lake Como that would make anyone pause.
With demand for high-quality collector BMWs on the rise, this auction could set the tone for values in 2025 and beyond.
Why This Auction Matters
For collectors and enthusiasts, this isn’t just an opportunity to buy a car. It’s a moment to own a piece of BMW history. Each car has been selected for its authenticity, rarity, and desirability.
Key reasons to watch this sale:
- BMW’s official presence ensures factory-level credibility
- Rare models with excellent provenance
- European debut for Broad Arrow in a high-profile setting
- Curated collection celebrating BMW’s legacy
Whether you’re in the market or just love great cars, this is a must-watch event.
Final Thoughts
Broad Arrow’s exclusive BMW auction is more than a sale – it’s a celebration of what makes BMW great. Style. Innovation. Motorsport DNA. And just the right amount of rarity.
So, which car would you want in your dream garage?
Would you choose the timeless 507, the radical M1, or the modern charm of the Z8?
Let us know in the comments – we’d love to hear your favourites.
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