The BMW 328 Roadster is a legendary vehicle that was first introduced in 1936. It is known for its lightweight construction, aerodynamic design, and powerful engine. The car was developed by a team led by chief engineer Fritz Fiedler and designer Peter Szymanowski. The 328 was produced until 1940 and had a direct impact on post-war BMW models. Its 2.0-liter inline-six engine produced 80 horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of around 150 km/h (93 mph). The car featured independent front suspension and a solid rear axle, giving it excellent driving characteristics.
The BMW 328 Roadster achieved remarkable success in motorsport, especially at the 1939 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it was driven by Max Prinz zu Schaumburg-Lippe and Fritz Huschke von Hanstein. The exceptional performance and reliability of the vehicle made it a favorite at racing events throughout Europe. During its racing career, the 328 garnered over 200 victories, including endurance races and hillclimbs. One of the most notable wins was at the 1940 Mille Miglia race, where a modified 328 Roadster outperformed the competition.
The BMW 328 Roadster was technologically ahead of its time. The body was made of aluminum and steel, making the car lighter and therefore faster. The chassis featured a tubular frame with torsional rigidity, benefiting from low ground clearance. The engine was a 2.0-liter inline-six producing 80 horsepower at 5000 rpm and a maximum torque of 138 Nm (102 lb-ft). Weighing in at around 830 kg (1830 lbs), the car could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 10 seconds.
This model version of the BMW 328 Roadster, created by AUTOart Signature in 1/18 scale, is based on diecast material. The model is part of Modelly member "Jiten's" collection and beautifully showcases precision craftsmanship and attention to detail. The white livery with the number 27 and specific sponsor decals and other fine details provide an accurate representation of the original car from the 1939 24 Hours of Le Mans. The wheels, interior, and hood are meticulously modeled, capturing the essence of the historic roadster.
The AUTOart Signature MINIROTUR in 1/18 scale impresses with its attention to detail. The white color scheme of the model is complemented by the brown leather straps on the hood, giving the model an authentic and understated look. In the model photos, the closed radiator grille with the distinctive vertical slats and round headlights are clearly visible. The model also showcases the specific body shapes that make the real BMW 328 Roadster so sleek and aerodynamic. Sponsor decals like those of Max Prinz and Fritz Huschke are also visible, contributing to the faithful reproduction of the original racing car.