The BMW 328 Touring Coupé is an iconic sports car with a storied history, particularly notable for its performance at the 1939 24 Hours of Le Mans. Here’s an overview of the car and its achievement:
Overview of the BMW 328 Touring Coupé:
- Manufacturer: BMW
- Model: 328 Touring Coupé
- Engine: 2.0-liter inline 6-cylinder, naturally aspirated
- Power Output: Approximately 80 horsepower
- Body: Lightweight aluminum body designed by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan using their patented “Superleggera” construction technique.
- Chassis: Tubular steel frame
1939 24 Hours of Le Mans:
- Event: 1939 24 Hours of Le Mans (held on June 17-18, 1939)
- Driver Line-up: Fritz Huschke von Hanstein and Walter Bäumer
- Performance:
- Class Victory: The BMW 328 Touring Coupé won its class (2.0-liter category) at the 1939 Le Mans.
- Overall Finish: The car also secured a remarkable 5th place overall, an impressive feat for a car with relatively modest power compared to its competitors.
- Top Speed: The car achieved speeds over 135 mph (217 km/h), showcasing the excellent aerodynamic design and engineering.
Design and Innovation:
- The BMW 328 Touring Coupé was a marvel of its time, combining lightweight construction, advanced aerodynamics, and a reliable engine. The “Superleggera” design contributed significantly to the car’s agility and speed, making it a formidable competitor on the racetrack.
- The car’s streamlined, aerodynamic shape not only enhanced its performance but also influenced future automotive designs.
Legacy:
The 1939 Le Mans performance by the BMW 328 Touring Coupé is remembered as one of the brand’s early motorsport successes. Despite the interruption of World War II, the car’s achievements helped establish BMW’s reputation in motorsport and engineering excellence. The 328 Touring Coupé remains a symbol of innovation, with surviving examples highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
