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The Racing Legacy of Horst and Falk Müller: A Glimpse into the 1968 Dream
In the summer of 1968, as global turmoil ignited student revolts and challenged traditional structures, two engineers from Siegen University in West Germany turned their focus from protests to an audacious engineering project. Horst Müller and Falk Müller, unrelated by family ties, channeled the energy of the era into crafting a pair of remarkable racing cars that would stand as their enduring legacy.
A Vision Born of Turbulence
Horst and Falk Müller, both in their thirties at the time, were immersed in the academic environment of Siegen University. The student protests of 1968 had brought much of university life to a standstill, providing the two engineers with an unexpected gift: time. Rather than participating in the demonstrations, they chose to seize this opportunity to bring their shared dream to life. The Müller duo spent countless hours in the university's workshop, transforming their vision into reality.
With their fondness for Bob Dylan and Joan Baez providing a soundtrack to their labors, the Müllers embarked on a project that would be emblematic of their era's creative spirit. Their creation, though rooted in the tumultuous political climate, became a symbol of innovation and engineering excellence.
The Cars: MM1 and MM2
The result of their efforts were two strikingly designed racing cars, aptly named MM1 and MM2. These vehicles were not just products of their time but also a testament to the Müllers' technical prowess and their ability to mobilize resources from across the German automotive industry. The cars featured Formula 1 chassis, a BMW engine, and unique gullwing doors, and were finished in vibrant yellow and red, each reflecting the personality and passion of its creator.
- Engine and Performance: Both cars were powered by BMW's 2002 Ti engine, a 1990 cc powerhouse capable of producing 120 horsepower. Coupled with a ZF 5-speed Formula 1 gearbox, the cars boasted a top speed exceeding 200 km/h, depending on the gear ratio. They were engineered with precision, achieving a weight of only 710 kilograms and a wheelbase of 2255 mm, which contributed to their impressive performance on the track.
- Construction Details: The cars incorporated components from prestigious automotive brands, including a windshield and fittings from the Porsche 906 Carrera6. The Müllers even crafted their own rear windows in an oven at the university, showcasing their resourcefulness and hands-on approach.
The Unfolding Legacy
By 1970, the cars were fully operational and legally approved for racing. However, their journey was not without complications. The yellow MM2 encountered significant issues when it was loaned to a racing team and later crashed, rendering it a write-off. Despite their best efforts, the Müller team never rebuilt the yellow car, focusing their energies on the red MM1.
The red MM1, on the other hand, became a symbol of their achievement. Horst Müller recalls driving the car from Siegen to his in-laws' home in Worpswede, a journey that highlighted both its speed and its striking appearance. The car was occasionally re-registered and driven, but it was eventually stored away to avoid any potential danger to their children.
A Rediscovered Dream
Fast forward to the fall of 2017, and the Müllers' creations were rediscovered. An email mistakenly sent to a Bavarian classic car dealer, Matthias Pinske, led to the re-emergence of the red MM1 and the remains of the yellow MM2. Pinske, initially skeptical, was soon captivated by the story of the Müllers and their racing cars.
Pinske's acquisition of the red MM1 brought the car back into the spotlight. It now stands as a tribute to the Müllers' ingenuity and a reminder of the era's spirit. The yellow car, though beyond repair, remains a part of this historic narrative.
Reflecting on a Legacy
Today, Horst Müller reflects on his racing cars with a sense of accomplishment and nostalgia. Despite the passage of time and changes in his life, the red racing car remains a cherished part of his past. Müller, now retired and living a quiet life in Siegen, continues to engage with his passions through long bike rides and gardening.
For Matthias Pinske, the red MM1 is more than just a car; it is a historical artifact that embodies a unique moment in automotive history. The car, carefully preserved and admired, tells the story of two engineers who defied the conventional and followed their dream during a year of profound change.
In the annals of automotive history, the Müller racing cars are not just examples of technical achievement but also symbols of a transformative era. The red MM1 stands as a testament to Horst and Falk Müller's vision, a relic of a time when innovation and rebellion went hand in hand.
Editor's note: It is said that the three cars were built in the years 1968 and 1969 at Siegen University. Of these, two still exist: the yellow MM002 and the red MM003.
