1937 | BMW 326

• Rare convertible from coachbuilder Gläser
• Only 25 units manufactured, only two known to exist today
• From a high-calibre collection
• Colour scheme in two-tone dark red and black with leather interior light beige
• 6-cylinder in-line engine, 1,971 cc, 50 hp
• Engine "matching numbers"

The BMW 326, first presented at the Berlin Motor Show in February 1936, marked a significant milestone in the history of the Bavarian car manufacturer. With this elegant vehicle, BMW took the decisive step from being a manufacturer of compact mid-range cars to a producer of prestigious premium cars. Like no BMW before it, the 326 embodied a successful synthesis of technical innovation, contemporary design and sophisticated features.

The design of the BMW 326 was far ahead of its time and not only influenced subsequent BMW models, but also set standards for the entire automotive industry. The successful combination of functionality (aerodynamics) and aesthetics (elegant lines) made the 326 one of the most beautiful cars of its time and a design classic whose influence can still be felt today. It is particularly noteworthy that with the 326, BMW took an independent design path that clearly stood out from American models and developed a specifically European, even German, design language. This design philosophy – the combination of technical functionality with timeless elegance – was to become characteristic of BMW and continues to shape the brand to this day.

The BMW 326 was an elegant and powerful vehicle that was available in various body styles, including a convertible by coach builder Gläser.

The body of the 326 Gläser Cabriolet was designed and manufactured by the German coachbuilder Gläser. Gläser bodies were renowned for their craftsmanship and elegance. The convertible was characterised by its clean lines, rounded wings and elongated rear, giving the car a timeless and appealing design. Under the bonnet of the BMW 326 Gläser Cabriolet was an inline six-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1.9 litres providing 50 hp.

Production of the BMW 326 and its convertible model ended with the begin of the Second World War. For this reason, only 25 of these models were ever produced, and only two examples survived the turmoil of the Second World War – the other one is on display at the BMW Museum in Munich.

This example was acquired in excellent condition with matching numbers (!) directly from the Schörghuber family's automobile collection. Since then, it has been stored without interruption in a classic car museum with perfect climate control. The bodywork has excellent fit and gap dimensions. The trim strips are perfectly aligned on the body.