Before World War II, one of the most successful race vehicles was the 1936 BMW 328, which was also regarded as one of the most significant automobiles ever produced. It had one of the most timeless stylings ever and was the supercar of its day. Clcompany is delighted to feature the facts about the 1936’s Classic 328 Roadster.
Flashback
The 328 debuted at the 1936 Eifelrennen race at the Nürburgring, where it was driven by Ernst Henne to victory in the 2.0-liter class. The BMW 328 was a sports car offered by BMW from 1936 to 1940. The body design is credited to Peter Szymanowski, who took over as BMW’s head designer after World War II. On the racetrack and in the streets, the tall, slim “BMW-Kidney” grille was already known as a brand.
Years in production – 1936 to1940
The Design
It was unique for 1936 to have a long bonnet with two flared arches and a pair of headlamps incorporated into the flowing design of the car. Two passengers could fit in the small cockpit, and the half-doors were simply included to comply with requirements. The wheel arches on the back wheels were flared and expanded. When the car was driven on the streets, the spare wheel was placed on top of the sloped trunk between them. The spare wheel and the fenders were taken off the cars during the race in order to make them lighter. The circular design of the chassis helped to lighten and strengthen it.
Top Specifications of 328 Roadster
- Displacement – 1,971 cc
- Power – 59.7 kw @ 5000 rpm
- Torque – 126.09 nm @ 4000 rpm
- Transmission – 4-Speed Manual
- Top speed – 132 km/h
- Kerb weight– 830 kg
- Wheelbase– 94.5 inches
Interesting facts
- A global council of automotive journalists selected the BMW 328 as one of 25 contenders for Car of the Century in 1999.
- The BMW 328 won its class in the Mille Miglia in 1938.
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