While the 328 Roadster did much for BMW's reputation in the world outside Germany, the real stars of the model range of the late 1930s were the 327 coupes and cabriolets.

Stunningly styled by Peter Schimanowski, they epitomize the German touring car of the period with their sleek yet curvaceous lines, long bonnets and the distinctive rear end treatment and spare tire enclosure. Gorgeous two-tone paintwork and the option of rear-wheel spats enhance what are still among the most attractive cars ever to wear the famous BMW roundel.

The launch of the 327 followed that of the 326 saloon at a discrete distance. The cabriolet was announced in November of 1937 and the coupe in October of the following year. Both models had the short version of the 326's chassis, but both also had the newer 326-type front suspension allied to a rear end carried on semi-elliptic springs. The short wheelbase and long-bonnet styling made seating strictly 2-plus-2.

As a four door saloon or cabriolet BMW's 326 sold extremely well and would go on to sell some 15,949 units by close of production in 1941. However, it was distinctly family oriented and not for the more sporting enthusiast. Instead of providing a 326 derived sports alternative BMW leapt forward with the introduction of the 328, an out-and-out sports car, which would firmly establish the company's competition reputation.

BMW 327 Coupe from the side. Many 327's sported distinctive, two-tone colors.

BMW debuted the 327 in 1938 and benefited from aspects of both predecessors. It took a shortened version of the rigid 326 box chassis, but had rear semi-elliptic leaf suspension, and offered power unit alternatives of either the higher compression 326 version or the 80bhp hemi-head triple carburetor 328 engine.

At first, the 327s came only with a high-compression edition of the 326's engine. Then, from April 1938, the triple-carburetor 328 engine was offered optionally, cars so equipped being rather clumsily described as 327/28 models.

In keeping with its sporting rather than racing intentions, two stylish coachwork alternatives were offered, a Cabriolet or Coupé, both provided by Autenrieth of Darmstadt and transported to Eisenach for completion.

A total of 1396 327 BMWs were produced of which it is thought 300 were coupés. Production of all types stopped in 1941.