The Soul of the
Roadster
328 - a number which means more than important racing victories for BMW and classic car enthusiasts. The
BMW 328 - a legend of automobile history.
Who would have thought that BMW could present such a car only seven years after it began with one small sedan? BMW was a newcomer during the 1930s. Yet, the 328 appeared like a thunderbolt. A
decisive answer to the challenge of the 2-liter class.
Having little time or money, the BMW designers limited themselves to the necessities and developed the best from what was at hand. The concentration on essentials inspired simplicity. The
six-cylinder engine, with its highly unusual valve timing gear, was a stroke of genius. The design built on the elegance of the 315/1 and 319/1 and added spirit.
In comparison to hulking racing cars of the time, the BMW 328 looked almost delicate. But the compact, streamlined two-seater made light work of its competition on the race track. Many
opponents took refuge in other classes. Often the 328s switched classes, too, because they were as fast as they were beautiful. Only a World War would finally interrupt a unique series of victories.
The BMW 328 influenced the style of car bodies for a long time. And for a long time after 1945, race drivers with modified BMW 328s or racing cars with a 328 drive were extremely successful.
As late as the early '60s, the further-developed motor of the BMW 328 was introduced by Bristol in England and by Arnolt-Bristol in the U.S.
The BMW 328 was, however, not just a racing car, but also a well-appointed touring car and roadster - perhaps the first actual roadster. It was no Spartan, no temperamental rough diamond, but
rather an elegant athlete for road and freeway with unexcelled racing potential. Two people could travel in a 328 with space for a bit of luggage. It was exceptionally pleasant to drive. The muscle-bound arms of a race driver weren't necessary
to elegantly negotiate the hairpin turns of the Alps.
Even today, as accustomed as we are to modern technology, one finds driving the BMW 328 extremely exhilarating, and not for purely nostalgic reasons. It was the basis of the joy of driving we
value so highly today.
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