The 1972 BMW Turbo concept car was a precursor to the BMW M1.
BMW’s Turbo concept, designed by Paul Bracq, explored the mid-engine layout, wedge-shaped profile, and driver-focused proportions that later became associated with BMW’s first production supercar. The concept was introduced in 1972 as a technological showcase, with safety and aerodynamic ideas alongside its striking styling.
The production BMW M1 emerged later as a purpose-built sports and racing car. Its fiberglass body was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, who drew inspiration from the BMW Turbo. The M1 was developed by BMW Motorsport and built between 1978 and 1981, making it a close historical successor in design language rather than a direct production version of the concept.
The other choices are BMW production lines with different histories: the 2002 was a compact sports sedan, the 8 Series was a later grand tourer, and the Z1 was a roadster. The Turbo’s strongest production connection is therefore the M1, BMW’s mid-engine homologation special.