Description:

Brand and model history: the rise of a Dutch racing icon

The BMW 5 Series made its debut in 1975 and was quickly praised as a masterful blend of luxury, comfort, and sporty performance. But for those seeking more than just driving pleasure on public roads, a unique opportunity emerged: the BMW 530i Group 1B, developed with Alpina and built for serious work on the racetrack.

This version was created for the Group 1B class within the European Touring Car Championship—a category for drivers who wanted to race on a limited budget, but still with high-end engineering. Unlike the more radically modified Group 2 cars, the 1Bs were less extreme, yet no less competitive.

In 1977, the Dutch BMW importer N.V. Alimpo ordered one of these rare machines. Based on a 525i, the model was upgraded with Alpina’s original 3.0L six-cylinder engine, equipped with special Alpina pistons, a 300-degree camshaft, modified airflow meter, front-mounted oil cooler, differential cooling, and of course, the iconic Alpina steering wheel. The result? A purebred race car with 230 hp, built to compete at the highest level.

The experience: driving a living legend

Picture the moment: you step over the threshold of a car that feels like a time capsule. Your hands grip the leather-wrapped Alpina wheel, you straighten your helmet, and turn the ignition key. The six-cylinder comes to life with a raw, pulsing growl—pure mechanical energy.

Shifting is heavy but precise, throttle response is razor-sharp. Corners become a dance of control and power. You hear the tires sing, the engine roar, and feel every bump in the asphalt—just as it was meant to be. This is no boulevard cruiser; this is a motorsport heirloom.

Every second behind the wheel is a journey back to a time when racing was defined by engineering, guts, and character. The BMW 530i Group 1B lets you feel what racing truly means.

Racing pedigree: a Dutch championship story

This car boasts an impressive racing history. In 1977, it was driven by Eddy Fresco, who achieved immediate success in the Dutch Touring Car Championship, including a 3rd place finish at Circuit Zandvoort. A year later, Fresco teamed up with the legendary Rob Slotemaker to secure 2nd place in Division 4 of the European Championship—a heroic feat among much faster Group 2 competitors.

In 1978, the car was purchased by Hans Maasland, who entered the 24 Hours of Spa twice, with Fred and Rien Frankenhout among the co-drivers. In 1981, the car finished 12th in class and 18th overall—an outstanding result for a Group 1B machine.

This specific car remains fully original and historically correct, an exceptionally rare trait for a vehicle with such an active racing career. Moreover, it is fully FIA HTP homologated and officially eligible for prestigious events such as Goodwood, Spa Classic, and Le Mans Classic. Take note: this is not just a replica, but the original and officially recognized car allowed in the correct class for Goodwood. Opportunities like this are few and far between.

Documentation and authenticity: an unmatched archive

What truly sets this BMW 530i Group 1B apart is the extraordinarily complete and rich documentation that accompanies it:

• The original AutoPass from its first registration

• Numerous original documents, entry forms, and technical specifications

• Detailed setup sheets and adjustments from its active racing period

• Stunning historical photographs, including action shots from Zandvoort, Spa-Francorchamps, and more

• Valid FIA HTP papers, ready for admission to top-tier events

The combination of technical authenticity, traceable provenance, and exceptional documentation makes this one of the best-preserved and most verifiable examples available today.

A rare opportunity: visit our showroom

When you see this car in person, you’ll understand immediately. This is no ordinary classic. This is an original, historic race car with soul, character, and proven performance. Its pure condition, storied past, and eligibility for events like Goodwood make it a standout choice for collectors and historic racers alike.

Most notably, this BMW 530i Group 1B is officially accepted for participation in the prestigious Goodwood Members’ Meeting—an invitation-only event that celebrates the golden era of motorsport with carefully curated grids and an unmatched atmosphere. Being selected for this event is a mark of authenticity, heritage, and competitiveness. This car isn't just eligible—it’s the real car that ran in-period and meets the exact criteria set by the organizers.

Despite its illustrious past, the car can—upon request—be delivered fully race-ready, tailored to your specific plans and desires, whether for competition, demonstration, or international historic events.

Curious? Feel free to visit us in Katwijk. The coffee is on us, and we’d be delighted to take the time to walk you through this remarkable machine.

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