BF Garage: 1M & the OEM+ Philosophy
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OEM Plus. It ‘s a philosophy I ‘ve used for a number of my recent cars and the 1M is no exception. The idea is simple – add only BMW designed, engineered or inspired accessories that enhance the look and feel of the car. And while it ‘s only been two weeks and 400 miles since taking delivery the big changes have already been made.
First up was the BMW Performance Carbon Fiber spoiler. A tricky install that requires a methodical approach, the spoiler slots onto the back of the 1M perfectly completing the lines of the deck-lid. It also harkens back to the classic E28 M5 and 535is spoilers from the 80 ‘s (some of my personal favorites). But you can ‘t add one piece of CF without another.
Next up was the carbon fiber mirror caps which are installed by simply (and gracefully) pulling off the existing ones before popping on the replacements. One of the easier maneuvers but again patience is required (as are the foam inserts that come with the CF mirrors).
Upfront I added the absolutely essential BMW Performance gloss black grille – exactly what the 1M should have had from the factory.
The one addition I ‘ve made so far to the interior is the Alcantara typically found on the BMW Performance steering wheel. It adds a touch more of the soft stuff in a perfect place for it – somewhere you don ‘t actually touch very often. A good thing considering Alcantara is known to disintegrate rather rapidly with repeated human contact (search for 330i ZHP steering wheel warranty claims and you ‘ll see what I mean).
The results of all of this is a sportier look with more contrast (outside) that better defines the car in both style and purpose. Oh and to someone who cars about the details, it looks (and in the case of the Alcantara) feels fantastic.
Speaking of the details, it ‘s interesting to note that all the carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) components are handmade and show exceptional craftsmanship. You ‘d expect that given the cost though.
But about performance? We ‘ll have to wait for that as both BMW and the aftermarket get better acquainted with the car. Instead next up we ‘ll talk about the rules of the break-in period and if they really matter.
