BMW 326
The sophisticated pre-war saloon that established BMW as a manufacturer of luxury touring cars.
- Power
- 50 bhp
- Top speed
- 71 mph
- Est. value
- $30k–$75k
About the BMW 326
Introduced at the 1936 Berlin Motor Show, the 326 was BMW's first four-door saloon and a significant leap forward in engineering. It featured an innovative box-section chassis, hydraulic brakes, and a torsion bar rear suspension, providing a level of refinement that rivalled contemporary Mercedes-Benz models. The 2.0-litre straight-six engine, though modest in output, was praised for its smoothness and formed the basis for the legendary 328 sports car. Its aerodynamic bodywork and advanced technical specifications made it BMW's most successful pre-war model.
BMW 326 specs
The BMW 326 produces 50 bhp (37 kW) and 108 Nm (80 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 71 mph (115 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 326 |
| Trim | 2.0 |
| Years | 1936–1941 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 15,949 built |
| Engine | 2.0-litre straight-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,971 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 50 bhp (37 kW) at 3,750 rpm |
| Torque | 108 Nm (80 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 71 mph (115 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,125 kg (2,480 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 44 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 326 worth?
A typical BMW 326 is estimated to be worth $30,000 – $75,000 (about £22,000 – £56,000).
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 326 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 326 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 55 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 326 fun facts
- The 326 was the first BMW to feature a four-door body style, moving the brand into the executive luxury market.
- Despite production ending in 1941 due to the war, the 326 design was so robust that it was briefly put back into production in 1945 under Soviet control.
- The 326's chassis and engine were the direct ancestors of the Bristol 400, as the designs were taken to England as war reparations.
