BMW 3/20
The first BMW designed entirely in-house, marking the brand's departure from the Austin 7 license.
- Power
- 20 bhp
- Top speed
- 50 mph
- Est. value
- $15k–$35k
About the BMW 3/20
The BMW 3/20 PS was the successor to the 3/15 'Dixi' and represents a pivotal moment in BMW history as their first original car design. Developed at the Eisenach factory, it featured a new 782cc four-cylinder engine with overhead valves, a significant upgrade over the side-valve Austin-derived unit. The chassis was also modernised with swing-axle independent rear suspension and a double-drop frame. The AM-1 (Ausführung München) designation refers to the first version of this series, which helped establish BMW as a serious automotive manufacturer during the early 1930s.
BMW 3/20 specs
The BMW 3/20 produces 20 bhp (15 kW). It has a top speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 3/20 |
| Trim | AM-1 |
| Years | 1932–1934 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 7,215 built |
| Engine | 782cc inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 782 cc (0.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 20 bhp (15 kW) at 3,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 50 mph (80 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 750 kg (1,653 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 27 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 3/20 worth?
A typical BMW 3/20 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 3/20 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 3/20 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 46 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 3/20 fun facts
- The 3/20 was the first BMW car to be designed by the company's own engineers rather than being built under license.
- Its engine was essentially a heavily modified version of the Austin 7 unit, converted to overhead valves to produce 20 horsepower.
- The model was available in several body styles, including a two-door saloon, a four-seat cabriolet, and a two-seat roadster.
