BMW 327 Coupe
The BMW 327 represents the pinnacle of prewar BMW design and engineering. Introduced in 1937, it was a luxurious two-door touring car that showcased everything BMW had learned from building fine automobiles and aircraft engines. With its flowing, aerodynamic bodywork penned by Fritz Fiedler and Peter Schimanowski, the 327 was one of the most beautiful cars of its era.
Powered by BMW's proven 1,971cc inline-six engine producing 55 hp in standard tune (or 80 hp in the sportier 327/28 variant that used the 328's engine), the 327 was no sports car but rather a refined, comfortable grand tourer. The engine was smooth and willing, mated to a four-speed Hurth gearbox that provided relaxed cruising at the car's 125 km/h top speed.
The 327 was available as both a coupe and a cabriolet, with the coupe featuring a particularly elegant fastback profile. The interior was lavishly appointed for its time, with leather upholstery, wood trim, and comprehensive instrumentation. Build quality was exceptional, reflecting BMW's commitment to craftsmanship.
Production was interrupted by World War II, and the Eisenach factory where the 327 was built ended up in the Soviet occupation zone after the war. The Soviets continued producing a modified version as the EMW 327 until 1955, creating a curious Cold War chapter in the car's history. Original prewar BMW 327s are exceedingly rare today, with fewer than 1,400 coupes and cabriolets built between 1937 and 1941.
The 327 is significant as the car that established BMW's reputation for building elegant, well-engineered touring cars. It bridged the gap between the sportier 328 and BMW's larger sedans, creating a niche that BMW would later fill with the 6 Series. Survivors are prized by collectors for their rarity, beauty, and historical importance as prewar masterpieces from a company that would go on to become one of the world's premier automakers.
Extremely rare prewar BMW. Authenticity is paramount — verify chassis numbers, engine matching, and body provenance carefully. Many cars were damaged or destroyed during WWII. Post-war EMW-built cars exist and are less valuable than genuine prewar BMW examples. Coachwork condition is critical as panel fabrication is extremely expensive. The inline-six engine is robust but parts are scarce. Electrical systems should be updated for reliability. A thorough marque specialist inspection is essential before purchase.
Approximately 1,396 units produced between 1937-1941 (coupe and cabriolet combined). Production halted by WWII. The Eisenach factory fell into the Soviet zone post-war; EMW continued building a modified 327 until 1955 under Soviet direction. The 327/28 variant used the more powerful 328 engine (80 hp).