BMW 1800 New Class
The car that saved BMW and defined the modern sports saloon.
- Power
- 90 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.0 s
- Top speed
- 100 mph
- Est. value
- $10k–$35k
About the BMW 1800 New Class
The BMW 1800 was a cornerstone of the 'Neue Klasse' (New Class) range, a series of cars that rescued BMW from financial ruin in the 1960s. It introduced the world to the concept of the practical four-door saloon with genuine sporting DNA, featuring the legendary M10 overhead-cam engine. The 1968 model year is significant for the transition to a shorter-stroke 1,766cc engine shared with the 2000 model, improving smoothness. Collectors prize these for their clean Michelotti-influenced styling, the iconic 'Hofmeister kink' and their role as the direct ancestor to the 5 Series.
BMW 1800 New Class specs
The BMW 1800 New Class produces 90 bhp (67 kW) and 144 Nm (106 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.0 seconds and has a top speed of 100 mph (161 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 1800 |
| Generation | New Class |
| Trim | 1.8 |
| Years | 1963–1971 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $3,300 when new |
| Engine | 1.8-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,766 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 90 bhp (67 kW) at 5,250 rpm |
| Torque | 144 Nm (106 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.0 s |
| Top speed | 100 mph (161 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,100 kg (2,425 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 82 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BMW 1800 New Class worth?
A typical BMW 1800 New Class is estimated to be worth $9,500 – $35,000 (about £7,100 – £26,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,300.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BMW 1800 New Class rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 1800 New Class is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW 1800 New Class fun facts
- The 1800 was the best-selling variant of the entire New Class sedan range, with over 160,000 units produced.
- The 1968 update introduced a dual-circuit braking system and a new dashboard design to the 1800.
- The New Class design debuted the 'Hofmeister kink' at the C-pillar, a styling cue that remains a BMW signature today.
