1938 BMW 327 Cabriolet

Munich-based Bayerische Motoren Werke aka Bavarian Motor Works was founded on March 7, 1916 and was initially involved in designing and building aircraft engines. After the First World War, their focus switched from aircraft engines to manufacturing air brakes for railroad cars. Eventually, BMW resumed its aircraft endeavors in 1922 and in a short period of time, had established some 29 aviation records. In the same year, they added motorcycles to its production line-up. Cars followed in 1929.

BMW's production of cars was centered at their Eisenbach factory. Their early cars were powered by a 743cc four-cylinder engine producing a meager 15 horsepower. The engine size and power would quickly grow, and by 1930 BMW was scoring its first racing wins. Their first 'real car' came two years later - it was a new saloon model called the AM 4. The 303 followed in 1933 and was powered by the company's first inline-six cylinder power plant. This would be the direct predecessor to the legendary 327 Model which appeared in 1936 as the Type 326. The 327 differed from the 326 by having an even mort 'sportier' persona and fitted to a shortened version of the BMW 326 chassis. The car had hydraulic brakes and an advanced gear box, clutch and front suspension system first seen on the 326, along with the live axle used on the BMW 320 and BMW 328. The engine from the 326 was used in the 327 - it was a 1971cc straight 6-cylinder unit that was given a boost in power to 55 BHP.

The BMW 327 was introduced in November of 1937 and was styled by Peter Schimanowski. Production lasted from 1938 to 1940 with only 1,396 examples produced, in both cabriolet and coupe designs.

This BMW 327 Cabriolet has period correct two-tone livery and black exterior with a red leather interior with black piping. It has been given a complete restoration that was performed over the period of 10 years.

In 2009, this BMW 327 was offered for sale by Bonhams Auction Company at the Exceptional Motorcars and Automobilia at the Quail Lodge Resort in Carmel, Ca. The car was sold for $144,500 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2009