The John Player Special livery is synonymous with Lotus, the black and gold always cutting a distinctive dash on the F1 grid. However it has been seen elsewhere too, including this fantastic BMW 635 CSi that has always resided in Australia. Seven-time winner of the Bathurst 1000 Jim Richards will be back at the wheel of his beloved 'Black Beauty' soon, competing in two Jet Super Touring Car Trophy showdowns at the Silverstone Classic in July.
Originally in Group C spec, it struggled against the V8 Fords and Holdens; however, when Australia adopted Group A regulations, Richards and the JPS BMW won seven of 10 rounds of the Australian Touring Car Championship whilst going undefeated in the AMSCAR series.
After it was purchased by current owner Peter Sturgeon, it was converted back to its Group C spec and Peter said, "in Group C form, this is the one and only 24-valve engined BMW 635 ever raced and to have Jim back driving it is very, very special."
Here is an example of what to expect at Silverstone Classic as Jim Richards races the JPS BMW around Phillip Island - listen to that noise!
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