Espresso from a BMW boxer engine?

BMW Motorrad has done quite a few remarkable things over the years. This project, however, might be at the top of the list. In a limited edition of only 80 hand-crafted copies, an espresso machine is now available: the Big Coffee Boxer, packed with the clunky 1,802cc boxer engine of the iconic BMW R 18.

Piece of mechanical engineering

The machine was created in collaboration with German espresso machine manufacturer ECM and Munich-based coffee roaster Dallmayr. A feat of mechanical engineering with coffee culture in a particularly specific device.

Original parts BMW R18 block

The BMW Big Coffee Boxer features original parts from BMW’s R 18 engine block, the largest boxer twin cylinder the brand ever put into production. This is the same 1,802cc block that produces 89 hp and 160 Nm of torque in BMW’s heritage cruiser, the R 18.

Shape of engine block retained

ECM did not simply mount some valve covers on an average automatic coffee machine. All parts of the device have been adapted to the shape of the real engine block. The machine stands on a specially manufactured metal stand with a floating drip tray.

Serious espresso

Beneath the boxer-inspired exterior lies a serious espresso setup. ECM equipped the Big Coffee Boxer with an E61 brewing group. A proven system introduced by Faema in 1961 and still beloved in high-end coffee machines.

Special coffee blend

BMW and ECM teamed up with Dallmayr Kaffee, one of Germany’s oldest and most renowned coffee roasters. The recommended coffee is a blend called Italian Vibe. A coffee with the flavor profile of traditional espressos according to the coffee roaster.

Price Big Coffee Boxer

The price of the Big Coffee Boxer is €7,900 (including 19% VAT). The machine is available exclusively through ECM Exclusiv Line dealers, and once the 80 units are sold, no more will be added. An average ECM machine is also quite pricey, by the way. For the simplest one you already spend almost €1,200 and for a more professional one even double.

Cheaper than a BMW R 18

One thing is certain: this machine is not for everyone. But if you already own a BMW R 18, don’t be shocked by the hefty price. At least over 25,000 grand you currently count down for a Big Boxer. Most buyers pay more because they want a richly dressed version. All those buyers are lovers of mechanical craftsmanship. Then this espresso machine is bound to fascinate them, too.