1939' BMW 321 Cabriolet

DOROTHEUM auction in the Vehicle and Technology Center Vienna / Summer Sale at the Vehicle and Technology Center Vienna
Classic vehicles and motorcycles / Classic motorcars and motorcycles
Saturday, July 3, 2021 - 3 p.m. / Saturday, July 3, 2021 - 3 p. m.
2331 Vösendorf, Doctor Robert Firneisstrasse 6-8
Online catalog / online catalog: - details above

Lot 55 V
1939 BMW 321 Cabriolet
One of only 1,551 factory convertibles built
High quality restored
Matching Numbers

In January 1939, the BMW 321 appeared as the successor to the Type 320. The cars were visually recognizable by the modern, rear-hinged doors and continuous bumpers. On the technical side, the front axle of the larger 326 has now been installed. The track had grown significantly, which, in conjunction with slightly wider wheels, had a very positive effect on driving behavior. What remained was the tried and tested six-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1.971 cc and the more compact dimensions compared to the 326. This much more grown-up BMW was again available in two body styles, namely as a two-door sedan and a two-door convertible with four windows. While the limousines already had bodies made entirely of steel, which were manufactured at Ambi Budd in Berlin, the Authenrieth convertibles continued to have a wooden substructure. Body builders such as Reutter or Baur also occasionally clad 321s that were delivered as chassis. Production in Eisenach came to an abrupt end in 1941, when the Second World War had long since plunged the world into disaster.

In 1994 Helmut Lutz bought this BMW 321 from a friend as a souvenir from his youth. It was in dire need of restoration. The convertible was imported from Romania in November 1993. According to information from BMW, the 321 was actually delivered there as a convertible on May 3, 1939, namely to the Tracta company in Bucharest. After the acquisition by Mr. Lutz, everything was dismantled and an inventory was made. The condition was bad, but at least the BMW was very complete. The original frame was equipped with the original engine and the body number was still there and legible. So it was a good basis for the restoration of a high-quality classic car. After intensive preparation, an extensive restoration was carried out between 2003 and 2007. So the wood was replaced where necessary, the body was professionally repaired and also painted. The interior and the hood were renewed by the expert. The original engine has been overhauled as has the rest of the mechanics. Numerous photos clearly document the work carried out. The enclosed correspondence shows how much Mr. Lutz dealt with the car. The convertible was finally registered on May 23, 2007 and from then on it was regularly moved as part of a small collection. The BMW is brought in with a fresh inspection and general inspection so that an enthusiast can get started right away.

Chassis: 95370,
Engine: 95370,
Papers: German historical registration