BMW 328

vs

Riley MPH

Germany vs United Kingdom — 1937 vs 1934

BMW 328 (1937)
Riley MPH (1934)
Specifications
328 RoadsterMPH Standard
Horsepower80 hp70 hp
Torque101 lb-ft
Engine Size1,971 cc1,496 cc
0-60 mph12.0 sec
Top Speed96 mph90 mph
Weight1,830 lbs2,016 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,591 mm
Length3,900 mm3,962 mm
Units Produced46415
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$1,000,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity10/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1937 BMW 328 Roadster brings more power, higher top speed, lighter weight to the table, and the 1934 Riley MPH Standard answers with greater rarity, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Germany and United Kingdom automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1937 BMW 328 Roadster versus 1934 Riley MPH Standard is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1937 BMW 328 Roadster producing 80 hp and the 1934 Riley MPH Standard delivering 70 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW 328 uses a Inline-6 OHV Cross-pushrod hemispherical 12V displacing 1,971 cc, while the Riley MPH relies on a Inline-4 OHV (Twin-Cam, Riley) with 1,496 cc. The 1937 BMW 328 Roadster claims a higher top speed at 96 mph compared to 90 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 15 units built, the 1934 Riley MPH Standard is considerably scarcer than the BMW 328's 464 examples.