The 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia ‘Buegelfalte’ stands as an unparalleled icon in the realm of pre-war sports racing cars. Not only is it a unique and beautiful creation, but it also boasts an illustrious racing pedigree that has earned it a place of honor in automotive history. With its groundbreaking design and impressive performance, this remarkable vehicle has left an indelible mark on the automotive world.
What sets the BMW 328 Mille Miglia ‘Buegelfalte’ apart from other cars of its era is its status as the only special roadster ever built at the BMW factory in Munich. This distinction alone makes it a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle, showcasing BMW’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and design.
The car’s design was the brainchild of Wilhelm Kaiser, a highly experienced member of BMW’s new design department, known as “Künstlerische Gestaltung,” which was under the leadership of Chief-Stylist Wilhelm Meyerhuber. Together, they crafted a design that was both strikingly beautiful and aerodynamically efficient.
One of the most distinctive features of the BMW 328 Mille Miglia ‘Buegelfalte’ is its unique bodywork, characterized by the creases on the top of the fenders, which earned it the nickname ‘Buegelfalte,’ meaning ‘trouser crease’ in German.
This design element not only added to the car’s aesthetic appeal but also contributed to its aerodynamic performance on the race track. The sleek and streamlined bodywork of the ‘Buegelfalte’ served as a precursor to the styling seen in many post-war sports cars, including the legendary Jaguar XK120 Roadster.
Beyond its stunning design, the BMW 328 Mille Miglia ‘Buegelfalte’ boasts an impressive racing pedigree, achieving numerous wins including a class victory at the prestigious Mille Miglia race. Its success on the track not only showcased exceptional performance but also underscored BMW’s engineering prowess.
Additionally, the ‘Buegelfalte’ left a lasting influence on the automotive industry, inspiring a generation of post-war sports cars, solidifying its status as one of the most significant and influential cars of its time, celebrated by enthusiasts and historians alike.
In conclusion, the 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia ‘Buegelfalte’ is a true masterpiece of automotive engineering and design. With its unique bodywork, impressive racing pedigree, and lasting influence on the automotive industry, it remains a symbol of BMW’s commitment to innovation and excellence. This extraordinary vehicle continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the most iconic cars ever built.
