01 · Überblick
The one-off from the Cape
Because the turbo 745i couldn’t be realised with right-hand drive (the turbocharger sat in the way), BMW South Africa simply fitted the M88/3 from the M1: the M745i produced 286 PS at 6,500/min, making it the unofficial M7 that never officially existed.
Between 1983 and 1987, 192 examples were built in Rosslyn — today one of the most sought-after BMW special editions of all, and a chapter that even seasoned enthusiasts often overlook.
02 · Historie
Einordnung
- 1983 Start of production in Rosslyn — with racing homologation for the South African championship.
- 1987 Ended after 192 cars; many vehicles remained at the Cape.
03 · In detail
In detail
Sedan, right-hand drive
Identifying features: M88 engine bay, M instruments, right-hand drive — externally almost a standard 745i.
04 · Motoren
M88/3 geprüft
Identical to M5 E28 and M635CSi — the M1 four-valve engine in the chauffeur-driven sedan.
Technische Daten anzeigen
| Hubraum | 3.453 cm³ |
| Leistung | 286 PS (210 kW) at 6,500/min |
| Getriebe | 5-speed or automatic |
Wikipedia EN, BMW 7 Series (E23)
05 · Kaufberatung
Marktlage
Almost all cars are in South Africa; imports are isolated cases. Verify authenticity via BMW South Africa documentation.
06 · Quellen