Vintage BMWs are a treasure trove for car enthusiasts and collectors alike, often fetching impressive prices at auctions due to their rarity, design, and performance. From iconic roadsters to classic sports cars, these vehicles represent the pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury. In this article, we’ll explore the top 12 most valuable vintage BMWs that have made waves at auctions, highlighting what makes each model so special and why they command such high prices. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious enthusiast, these BMWs are sure to captivate with their storied histories and timeless appeal.
BMW 507 Roadster
The BMW 507 Roadster, produced from 1956 to 1959, is a symbol of elegance and performance. Designed by Albrecht von Goertz, this model features a sleek, curvaceous body and a powerful V8 engine. Only 252 units were ever made, making it exceptionally rare. The combination of its rarity, design, and historical significance has led to auction prices reaching up to $5 million. The 507’s allure is further enhanced by its association with celebrities like Elvis Presley, who famously owned one.
BMW M1
Produced between 1978 and 1981, the BMW M1 was BMW’s first mid-engine sports car, developed in collaboration with Lamborghini. Its sleek design, coupled with a powerful 3.5-liter inline-six engine producing 277 hp, made it a standout performer. The M1’s rarity, with only 453 units produced, and its motorsport pedigree make it highly sought after, with auction prices often exceeding $1 million. The M1 remains an icon of BMW’s engineering prowess and racing heritage.
BMW 328
The BMW 328, produced from 1936 to 1940, is celebrated as one of the most successful pre-war sports cars. Its advanced engineering, lightweight construction, and 2.0-liter straight-six engine contributed to numerous racing victories. With its rich racing history and limited production, the BMW 328 commands high prices at auctions, often ranging from $1 million to $2 million. Its status as a pioneering sports car solidifies its value among collectors.
BMW 3.0 CSL ‘Batmobile’
The BMW 3.0 CSL, especially the ‘Batmobile’ variant produced in the early 1970s, is renowned for its lightweight design and racing success. The ‘Batmobile’ nickname comes from its distinctive aerodynamic features, including large spoilers and fender flares. Powered by a 3.2-liter inline-six engine, it excelled on the track and remains highly collectible. Auction prices for well-preserved examples range from $200,000 to $400,000, with rarer models fetching even more.
BMW Z8
The BMW Z8, produced from 1999 to 2003, has quickly become a modern classic. Its design, inspired by the iconic 507, combined with contemporary performance, has made it highly desirable. The Z8 features a 4.9-liter V8 engine producing 400 hp and boasts a limited production run of about 5,700 units. This exclusivity, along with its timeless design, has led to auction prices frequently exceeding $200,000.
BMW 2002 Turbo
The BMW 2002 Turbo, introduced in the early 1970s, was one of the first turbocharged production cars. Its aggressive performance, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, and distinctive flared fenders make it a standout model. Only 1,672 units were produced, adding to its rarity. Auction prices for the 2002 Turbo range from $100,000 to $200,000, reflecting its status as a pioneering force in automotive performance.
BMW 503 Cabriolet
The BMW 503 Cabriolet, produced from 1956 to 1959, is known for its luxurious design and advanced engineering. It features a 3.2-liter V8 engine and was one of the first cars to offer an electric folding top. With only 139 units made, its rarity and elegance make it highly prized. Auction prices for the 503 Cabriolet can reach up to $700,000, making it a valuable collector’s item.
BMW 3200 CS Bertone
The BMW 3200 CS Bertone, produced from 1962 to 1965, was designed by the famous Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. It featured a 3.2-liter V8 engine and was one of the last models to use BMW’s classic V8. Only 603 units were produced, adding to its rarity and desirability. Auction prices for the 3200 CS Bertone often exceed $200,000, driven by its design pedigree and limited production.
BMW 502
Produced from 1954 to 1964, the BMW 502 was the first post-war BMW to feature a V8 engine. Its elegant design and powerful performance set it apart from other luxury cars of its time. The 502’s historical significance and limited production numbers contribute to its high auction value, with well-preserved examples fetching prices upwards of $150,000.
BMW 700 RS
The BMW 700 RS, a lightweight racing version of the BMW 700, was produced in very limited numbers. Its 697 cc flat-twin engine and aluminum body made it a formidable competitor in racing events. Due to its rarity and racing heritage, auction prices for the 700 RS can reach up to $300,000, reflecting its significance in BMW’s motorsport history.
BMW 327/328 Cabriolet
The BMW 327/328 Cabriolet, produced in the late 1930s, combines the elegance of the 327 with the performance of the 328. Its 2.0-liter straight-six engine and sleek design make it a sought-after classic. Auction prices for the 327/328 Cabriolet typically range from $500,000 to $1 million, depending on its condition and provenance.
BMW E9 3.0 CSi
The BMW E9 3.0 CSi, produced from 1968 to 1975, is celebrated for its elegant design and powerful performance. It features a 3.0-liter inline-six engine and was a successful racing car in its era. The E9 3.0 CSi’s combination of style, performance, and racing pedigree makes it valuable, with auction prices often exceeding $100,000.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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