The Iconic Pre-War Roadster: Paving the Way for Modern BMWs

In June 1936, an unknown car made a stunning appearance at the Nürburgring, outperforming all its rivals without any prior publicity. This car was the BMW 328, a small German roadster with a two-liter engine, 80 horsepower, and a weight of 830 kilograms. Despite its impressive performance, the BMW 328 remains one of the most underrated cars in BMW’s history.

For its 90th anniversary, BMW will showcase the 328 at the 2026 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. With only 464 units ever produced and fewer than 200 still in existence, the BMW 328 is a rare and valuable collector’s item.

The BMW 328’s Remarkable Beginnings

The BMW 328 was introduced in 1936 at the Nürburgring, where it surprised everyone with its performance. Designed by Rudolf Schleicher and Fritz Fiedler, the BMW 328 featured innovative lightweight construction and advanced engineering, setting new standards for sports cars of that era.

The Revolutionary Engineering of the BMW 328

One of the key features of the BMW 328 was its innovative engine design. Schleicher’s inline-six engine incorporated a unique cylinder head with inclined valves, achieving high efficiency without the need for forced induction. This design, patented by BMW in 1939, set the BMW 328 apart from its competitors.

The Dominance of the BMW 328 in Racing

The BMW 328 achieved remarkable success in racing, winning 141 out of 172 races it participated in. Its lightweight construction, superior handling, and powerful engine made it a formidable competitor on the racetrack, outperforming cars with greater power and resources.

The Legendary 1940 Mille Miglia Race

In 1940, the BMW 328 made history at the Mille Miglia race, setting a speed record that still stands today. The BMW 328’s performance in this race solidified its legacy as one of the most iconic racing cars of its time.

The Legacy of the BMW 328

With only 200 BMW 328s remaining in the world, their value continues to rise, making them highly sought-after collector’s items. The BMW 328’s influence extended beyond its production years, inspiring the creation of other iconic cars such as the Bristol and Frazer Nash models.

Celebrating 90 Years of the BMW 328

The 2026 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este will honor the 90th anniversary of the BMW 328, showcasing its enduring legacy in the world of automotive design and racing. This event will bring together classic BMW models and enthusiasts to celebrate the rich history of the BMW brand.