The BMW 328, introduced in 1936, may seem unassuming on paper with its 2-litre engine, but it has a solid argument for being one of the first true modern sports cars. While the late 1930s saw faster and more powerful machines, none could match the 328’s complete package—an ideal blend of engineering finesse, driving refinement, and timeless design. This remarkable car set the stage for future sports cars, influencing models like the Jaguar XK120 and others that followed.

Design and Architecture: A Masterclass in Style and Function

The design of the BMW 328 is both stunning and purposeful. From its sleek, curvaceous body to its carefully crafted details, the car’s exterior is a visual treat. The streamlined nose, integrated headlights, and shapely rear with its exposed spare wheel highlight BMW’s commitment to innovation. Every design feature was meticulously crafted, from the undercut front wings that seamlessly meet the valance to the clever single-piece, rear-hinged bonnet. This attention to detail made the BMW 328 a standout in its time.

Inside, the Bauhaus influence is immediately apparent. The clean, functional dashboard with bright dials contrasts beautifully with the wooden fascias and black-faced instruments typical of British rivals. The cabin features a distinct cream, three-spoke steering wheel, while the dashboard itself is equipped with VDO and Veigel dials, making the cockpit both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional.

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Watch this video to see the incredible wood carving of the BMW 328 Hommage by ND Woodworking Art!

Performance and Driving Experience: Precision Meets Power

When it comes to performance, the BMW 328 offers an experience that is ahead of its time. Powered by a 2.0-litre straight-six engine, it generates a modest 80bhp in its original form, which was enough to offer a thrilling driving experience. David Cottingham, the current owner of a restored 328, has upgraded the engine to a Bristol 100 D2 specification, which bumps the power output to a more modern 140bhp. This enhanced engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, ensures that the BMW 328 remains a joy to drive even today.

One of the car’s standout features is its precision steering. The rack-and-pinion system is far more responsive than the worm-and-sector setups of its contemporaries, offering pinpoint accuracy and smooth operation. The steering response is so refined that it feels like driving a 1960s sports car, with minimal feedback from the road and effortless maneuverability.

The 328’s suspension, which includes independent front suspension and a leaf-sprung live rear axle, provides a nimble driving experience. While the rear axle can feel jittery on rough roads, it rewards drivers with a relaxed, balanced feel on smoother surfaces. The hydraulic drum brakes, while not as advanced as modern systems, are quite effective for their era, offering strong, consistent stopping power with no noticeable locking.

History and Legacy: A Timeless Classic

The BMW 328’s legacy extends far beyond its initial production run, which lasted from 1936 to 1940, with only 462 units ever built. This model became an icon of pre-war engineering, admired for its design and performance. Over the years, many 328s were modified and restored, but some, like the one owned by David Cottingham, remain largely original, preserving the car’s historic charm.

The car’s journey through history is as fascinating as its design. The 328 was not just a symbol of German engineering excellence but also became a beloved classic in the motorsports world. It competed in various events, including races at the legendary Nürburgring and Goodwood Revival, where it continues to turn heads.

The 328’s early owners were equally as interesting. Dr. von Hofer, its first registered owner, was a prominent dental professor who possibly raced the car at Solitude near Stuttgart. Over the years, it passed through the hands of several notable figures, including Flight Lieutenant Bobby G. Blaylock, who drove it in France during his time with the USAF, and Dr. Hartley Turpin in the USA, before finally reaching Cottingham.

Technical Specifications: The Heart of the 328

Engine:

• 1971cc straight-six, with a cast-iron block and alloy head
• Two valves per cylinder, operated by a side-mounted camshaft
• Three downdraught Solex carburetors

Performance:

• Maximum power: 80bhp at 4500rpm
• Maximum torque: 93lb-ft at 4000rpm
• Top speed: 103 mph (166 km/h)
• 0-60mph: 9.5 seconds

Transmission and Suspension:

• Four-speed manual transmission
• Rear-wheel drive
• Independent front suspension, live rear axle with leaf springs
• Telescopic dampers front and rear

Dimensions:

• Length: 3899mm
• Width: 1549mm
• Height: 1245mm
• Wheelbase: 2362mm
• Weight: 743kg

Brakes and Steering:

• 11-inch drum brakes
• Rack-and-pinion steering

The Joy of Driving: A True Modern Classic

Driving the BMW 328 is a unique experience that connects the driver to the golden age of motoring. It may lack the raw power and wider tires of modern sports cars, but it compensates with an unrivaled harmony of feel and agility. The lightness of the chassis, combined with the precise steering and balanced handling, makes it a joy on any road, whether on track or winding country lanes.

David Cottingham, a renowned Ferrari specialist, compares the BMW 328 to his early Ferrari 166, noting that while the Ferrari is more powerful, the BMW offers superior handling and a more responsive driving experience. The 328’s understated performance and graceful handling make it a car that can compete with, and often surpass, many modern and vintage rivals.

Conclusion: The BMW 328’s Enduring Appeal

The BMW 328 stands as a testament to the art of sports car engineering. Its design, performance, and history have earned it a place among the greatest cars ever built. Even today, it continues to inspire enthusiasts and collectors alike, proving that true sports car excellence is not always about sheer power but about balance, precision, and style. Whether on the track or cruising the open road, the BMW 328 remains as relevant and thrilling as it was when it first rolled off the production line in the 1930s.

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Watch this exciting video to see the Hyundai i30N take on the E36 BMW 328i in a drag race, rolling race, and brake test—can a £2.8k car beat a £28k one?