From Throttle Auctions: Rare ‘Clown Shoe’ BMW Surfaces With a One-of-One Claim

From Throttle Auctions: Rare ‘Clown Shoe’ BMW Surfaces With a One-of-One Claim - featured image

A 2002 BMW M Coupe billed as a singular example of its kind has come to market, carrying a configuration that enthusiasts of the model have long prized.

The BMW, finished in Imola Red over a black interior, is reported to be the only S54-powered Coupe ordered in that color combination without a sunroof. Deleting the sunroof shaves weight and stiffens the body, a choice that appeals to drivers who want the most focused version of an already uncompromising machine. The result, by that reasoning, is lighter and more rigid than the typical car.

The M Coupe occupies an unusual place in BMW history. Produced in small numbers and built around the driver, the wagon-like shape earned the nickname “clown shoe” and has since climbed from curiosity to sought-after modern classic. This example stands out even among a rare group of peers.

Under the hood sits BMW’s 3.2-liter S54 inline-six, the same high-revving engine used in the E46-generation M3. Power reaches the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox and a limited-slip differential, a combination that gives the compact coupe its quick, balanced character and rewards an attentive driver.

The odometer shows roughly 24,000 miles. The current owner, who acquired the car in October 2022, has driven it sparingly, adding about 2,000 of those miles. Equipment includes bright-finished 17-inch Style 40 wheels, a Harman Kardon sound system with a CD stereo, air conditioning and cruise control.

For collectors who track these cars, the appeal lies in the mix of low mileage, original-feeling analog driving experience and the unusual sunroof-delete specification. Cars in this configuration rarely change hands, which makes the listing notable for buyers watching the segment.

See The Auction Here

Throttle Car Club’s Auction specializes in buying and selling collectible cars located throughout the New England area. Our Annual Live In-Person Auction features as many as 100 vehicles on site at our new 35,000 sf facility in Scarborough, Maine, each year. All registered buyers and sellers get access into event as well as our welcome reception. Lastly, Throttle is also a licensed used car dealer in the State of Maine. Please continue to check out inventory for available vehicles for sale/auction.

Our team of industry experts understands that trust is a key component when deciding to buy a vehicle. Our team of qualified collector car experts can assist you in finding your dream car on a nationwide basis while providing investment valuation guidelines. We are ready to deliver you the best experience possible while achieving your desired results.

How to buy a car on auction?

  1. Register on one of the links above to start bidding.
  2. Get Pre-approved for financing by JJbest. Click here to apply.
  3. Winning Bidders are required to pay a $1000 deposit at time of auction with the balance of the sale due to Throttle within 2 business days.
  4. Throttle can provide a shipping quote by a reputable transport company if needed.
  5. Throttle will provide you with all documentation necessary to register your car.

Buyer Fees

  1. 10% Buyer’s Premium on vehicles purchased at in-person live auctions
  2. 13% Buyer’s Premium on vehicles purchased on online auctions

Once we receive your completed registration form, you will receive a confirmation email from our Bidder Registration Department.

As a registered bidder, you and a guest will receive designated seating and access to the cocktail reception on Friday evening.

Bidder registration fees are non-refundable.

Schedule of Events

June 16th – 18th – Consignment Vehicle Dropoff 9:00am – 4:00pm

 June 19th –  

Vehicle Preview 12:00pm – 5:00pm

Registration 3:00pm – 6:00pm                  

 Registered Buyer & Seller Welcome Reception 5:00pm – 7:00pm

 June 20th – Registration Opens at 8:00am

Auction Starts at 10:00am

If you have questions regarding this process, call us at (888) 959-8051 x 6 or email us at auction@throttlecarclub.com. Our bidder registration experts are ready to assist you!

By Eve Nowell

Eve is a junior writer who’s learning the ropes of automotive journalism. Raised in a racing legacy family, she’s grown up around engines, stories, and trackside traditions, and now she’s beginning to share her own voice with readers.

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