Jeff Koons-Designed BMW Steers Into The Auction Block
By Mikelle Leow, 31 Oct 2023
Image via Bring A Trailer
BMW’s designers got together with famed American pop artist Jeff Koons to create “rolling sculptures” in the form of a BMW 850i xDrive Gran Coupe, dressed up with comic book-like motifs.
Only 99 were crafted during the special model’s release last year, and now, one of them is waiting for its second owner by way of an auction held by Bring A Trailer.
Image via Bring A Trailer
From the outside, it’s a colorful spectacle, taking 285 painstaking hours per car to achieve the visual treat designed by Koons. The artist incorporated 11 vibrant hues, showcasing geometric patterns flowing with the car’s sleek contours.
It’s hard to miss the exploding lines at the rear, for one. Symbols like a “POP!” bubble and “vapor thrust” imagery represent the raw power and agility of the car. And that deep blue? For Koons, it’s reminiscent of the infinite expanse of space.
Image via Bring A Trailer
Diving deeper into its features, this BMW boasts a panoramic sunroof, chin spoiler, front and rear fender vents, and the Shadowline trim. With BMW badges prominently displayed at the front and rear, and a singular M emblem on the black grille, it continues to ooze sophistication.
Sporting 20-inch V-spoke wheels, the car—which has only run for 16 miles—promises a smooth ride with Pirelli P Zero tires, red-braked calipers, and various driving aids to ensure maximum safety. The interior is just as opulent with red and blue leather seats, advanced car tech including Live Cockpit Pro, and a nod to its unique lineage with edition badging and Koons’ signature in Bavarian Blue.
Image via Bring A Trailer
Image via Bring A Trailer
Under the hood is a beastly twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, coupled with an eight-speed M Sport auto transmission. To enhance the driving experience, it’s laden with features like the Driving Assistance packages, xDrive all-wheel drive, and 20-inch M Performance wheels.
The car is paired with a letter and a certificate of authenticity, both personally signed by Koons and BMW’s CEO, Oliver Zipse.
Initially retailed at US$350,995, it’s now on a US$125,000 bid with 11 days left. Let’s see who ends up with this artful ride.
Image via Bring A Trailer
[via Hypebeast and Maxim, images via Bring A Trailer]
This article was crafted with assistance from an AI engine, and has been manually reviewed & edited.