FYI: Dive into the world of Vink Motorsport, where passion and precision bring classic BMW race cars back to life for historic competitions across Europe.
Explore Vink Motorsport’s BMW Legends
Nestled in the Netherlands, Vink Motorsport is a haven for BMW aficionados and racing enthusiasts alike. Led by the meticulous craftsmanship of Ton Vinck and his dedicated team, this motorsport workshop specializes in restoring classic BMW racing cars. In our previous coverage, we highlighted some breathtaking builds, and today, we’ll delve into four more astonishing projects currently under Vink’s revival process.
The Unstoppable BMW E28: Team Eggenberger Masterpiece
A jewel in the Vink Motorsport crown is the iconic 1982 European Touring Car Championship (ETCC) winner—the Team Eggenberger Motorsport BMW E28. With the introduction of new Group A regulations, BMW had to adapt swiftly, opting for the BMW E28 528i over its predecessor, the Group 2 635CSi.
This revered car underwent a remarkable transformation in partnership with Switzerland’s Eggenberger Motorsport. By shedding every non-essential element, its weight plummeted to align with the 1,035 kg class limit, while the inline-six engine roared to life, producing nearly 240 horsepower.
Driven by Umberto Grano and Helmut Kelleners, the E28 dominated the early ETCC rounds, clinching five consecutive victories and securing the championship title.
Ton and his team at Vink have meticulously breathed new life into this legendary vehicle. Significant rust issues necessitated a complete reshelling, though many original components have been restored or recreated using authentic blueprints. This restoration showcases Vink’s dedication to historical fidelity and precision.
Reviving the Rare BMW Alpina E30 DTM
Next, we have an ultra-rare BMW Alpina E30 DTM—a true gem among replicas, built by Alpina for the 1987 and 1988 DTM seasons. This car, unearthed by Ton from obscurity, boasts unique features like a green mirror ideal for race identification.
An incredible find during the restoration of this classic is an in-car radio, precisely placed as it was during its racing days, underscoring the authenticity of Vink Motorsport’s work.
The BMW E36 325i Coupe DTM Linder: A Jagermeister Icon
Another standout at Vink is the BMW E36 325i Coupe DTM. Rediscovered in Thailand, this gem returned to the Netherlands in dire condition. Undergoing a comprehensive restoration, this car is now adorned in its iconic Jagermeister Orange, recreated to original specifications by Jan Buis of Multitech.
Currently, parts from this storied machine are scattered around the workshop, awaiting their moment to once again thunder around a racing circuit. A miniature model in Vink’s Diner hints at what the finished car will emulate.
BMW M1 Procar: From Street to Track
Finally, the BMW M1 Procar beckons. Originally a street car, this model is undergoing an ambitious transformation into a Procar at Vink Motorsport—a nod to BMW’s storied motorsport heritage. While the bodywork and components sit ready, the heart of this beast, its engine, is still in assembly.
The BMW M1 holds a legendary status, being the first to wear the illustrious ‘M’ badge. Out of 453 produced with Lamborghini from 1978 to 1981, 399 were street versions, and 54 served as Procars. Soon, Vink’s project will add another Procar to the elite roster, perpetuating the M1’s enduring legacy.
Ton Vinck and his team’s unwavering dedication to preserving and reviving these historic machines is nothing short of inspirational. These efforts ensure that the golden age of motorsport is never forgotten, brought to life again on Europe’s iconic racetracks.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
