BMW 328 Mille Miglia 1938 Fane/James

BMW 328 Mille Miglia 1938 Fane/James

The early sports cars were so full of character and individuality and our BMW 328 from the 1930s is a fine example. Made by BMW between 1936 and 1940, only 464 were produced in the BMW plant in Eisenach, Germany. Classed as a sports car with roadster body, transmission comprised a 4-speed manual gearbox, with a top speed of 93 mph.  It was introduced at the Eifelrennan race at the Nu̎rburgring in 1936 when it won its 2-litre class.

This is the first livery on this model as raced by Albert Fane and co-driver William (Bill) James in the Mille Miglia in 1938.  The 1000-mile open road endurance race took place in Italy and racing as No. 113, the pair finished first in their class and eighth overall. It was only one of the many successes of the 2-litre BMW 328 which was unbeatable in international sports car races in its class, including Le Mans, the RAC Tourist Trophy the Alpine Rally, as well as the Mille Miglia.

Decorated in the off white colour scheme of the original 1938 race winner, the front wings and doors feature the race number 113 in black. Registered IIA 52114, the open topped car reveals a detailed dashboard with silver dials and glove box outline, against a black interior.  Additional external features include brown bonnet straps, silver wheels and chrome headlights.