BMW 3/15
The car that saved BMW: a German-built evolution of the legendary Austin 7.
- Power
- 15 bhp
- Top speed
- 47 mph
- Est. value
- $15k–$35k
About the BMW 3/15
The BMW 3/15 DA-2 was the first car to be sold under the BMW name, following the company's acquisition of Fahrzeugfabrik Eisenach. Based on the Austin 7, the DA-2 (Dixi Ausführung 2) featured significant improvements over the earlier DA-1, including four-wheel braking and a larger all-steel body. It was produced during the Great Depression and its success provided the financial stability BMW needed to develop its own original designs. Today, it is a highly significant pre-war collector car representing the birth of BMW's automotive legacy.
BMW 3/15 specs
The BMW 3/15 produces 15 bhp (11 kW) and 30 Nm (22 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 47 mph (75 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 3/15 |
| Trim | DA-2 |
| Years | 1929–1932 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 18,931 built |
| Engine | 747cc side-valve inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 747 cc (0.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 15 bhp (11 kW) at 3,000 rpm |
| Torque | 30 Nm (22 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 47 mph (75 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 410 kg (904 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 37 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 3/15 worth?
A typical BMW 3/15 is estimated to be worth $15,000 – $35,000 (about £11,000 – £26,000).
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 3/15 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 3/15 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 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 3/15 fun facts
- The '15' in the name refers to the actual horsepower, while the '3' refers to the tax horsepower rating.
- BMW paid a royalty of two pounds sterling to Herbert Austin for every vehicle produced under the licensing agreement.
- The DA-2 was available in several body styles, including a two-seater cabriolet and a delivery van, though the saloon was most popular.
