Estimate: £58000 - £68000

Sold: £63050

Launched in 1937, the first BMW 327 was a cabriolet model, followed in 1938 by a fixed-head coupé version. This was shorter and lower than its saloon counterpart but shared the famous BMW twin ‘sausage’ (more recently reduced to a twin ‘kidney’) grille and a streamlined form representative of the more progressive designs of the 1930s. Mechanically, the car utilised the innovative hydraulic brake control, gearbox, clutch and suspension system first seen on the 326. Also shared was the 1,971cc straight six power plant, although the 327 boasted a modest power increase to 55bhp. The advertised top speed of 78mph/125kph constituted a useful performance advantage for the shorter car. Among some enthusiasts, the 327 has subsequently been overshadowed by its more uncompromising sibling, the 80bhp BMW 328 which appeared in April 1938. In its day, however, the elegant 327 was the bigger seller, with 1,396 built between 1937 and 1941, and significant further production after 1945.

This BMW 327 is an early left-hand drive example manufactured in 1937. An interesting and practical pre-war sports tourer, it was the subject of a sympathetic and thorough ground-up restoration in 1986. Having spent some time in the custody of a North American enthusiast, the car was brought to Italy in 2006. It was subsequently brought to the UK in October 2008 and has been recently serviced by Robert Thredder Classic Car Specialists in Croydon. Complete with American registration papers, original handbook and British customs papers, this pre-war cabriolet is described by the current keeper as in fine condition. Finished in pearl white livery with a blue leather interior and blue hood, this is a most elegant car suitable for showing or driving at the many and varied prestigious events for which it is eligible.