Classic 1937 BMW Type 320 up for auction

With classic cabriolets likely to catch the eye at its forthcoming Summer sale, Historics auctioneers is anticipating keen interest in a rare pre-war 1937 BMW Type 320, complete with Czech Historic Vehicle Passport, on July 19th at Brooklands.
 
The striking dark green and cream soft-top is one of just 1635 Cabriolet cars produced, with manufacture of the midsize model put on hold in December 1938, 18 months after its introduction in July 1937, due to German preparation for World War Two.
 
At the time of its launch, the 320 Cabriolet was priced at approximately £1000 (5,250 Reichsmarks), which by modern standards equates to a figure in the region of £31,000 or the price of a 2011 BMW 320i Convertible.
 
Comparisons with the modern day equivalent end there however, with the 320 featuring an all-steel body built by Autenrieth in Darmstadt, leaf spring rear axle within a shortened wheelbase (to that of the Type 326), and a 1971cc, 6 cylinder, single carburettor engine that generated 45hp to propel the elegant BMW to a top speed of some 71mph.
 
Restored in the early 1990’s in Prague, Czech Republic, the car has covered just 113 miles since then, and alongside its immaculate dark green leather upholstery, features a matching BMW factory specification canvas hood.
 
Complete with a Czech Historic Vehicle Passport, Czech registration document and photo file of the restoration, the sale on July 19th represents an ideal opportunity to acquire a very rare pre-war German classic, and Historics anticipate offers in the region of £58,000 - £68,000 on Tuesday week at Brooklands Museum.
 
For more information, and to attend the Historics at Brooklands auction on the afternoon of Tuesday July 19th, visit historics.co.uk.  Entry by catalogue only, available prior to, or on the day of the auction.