Fantasy Junction

Description

1952 BMW/EMW 327 /2
s/n 87512 Engine no. 5244
Red and Black with Black Interior

The BMW and EMW story stretches back before the turn of the 20th Century. The precursor company Automobilwerk Eisenach was founded in 1896, and was eventually acquired by BMW in 1928 when they wanted to expand into automobile production (until then, they produced engines and motorcycles but no cars). Until the 1950’s, BMW automobiles were produced not in Munich, but at the factory in Eisenach, which is located in what was then Eastern Germany. Because of the factory’s location, it fell under Soviet control, and production of prewar BMW cars resumed after the war with no corporate connection to BMW in Munich. When the Soviets transferred the ownership of the company to the government of East Germany in 1952, BMW initiated legal proceedings, resulting in the renaming of the Eisenach company to EMW (Eisenach Motor Works), and the introduction of the red and white roundel to replace the blue and white one ordinarily associated with BMW. EMW continued to produce prewar BMW models including a limited number of 327’s (approximately 400 examples), before transferring to produce more sensible and less glamorous cars more suited to the Communist state. Thus, for EMW, the 327 was among the last vestiges of the pre-war glory associated with the streamlined and mechanically sophisticated cars that BMW produced.

This particular car, produced in 1953, should officially be considered and EMW, however it is unclear whether it has been rebadged as a BMW, or whether EMW continued to take liberties with regards to badging their cars after changing its name. Regardless, it is essentially identical to the prewar BMW 327, and was beautifully restored some years ago by Maniford Browdowski in Gutenswil Switzerland, a highly regarded restorer of vintage BMW’s. The restoration was a frame-off affair, and was completed over approximately a year and a half. It required much specialized fabrication of trim bits, and a glass blower in the Czech Republic was retained to fabricate new headlamp lenses with the correct Bosch patterning. The current owner purchased the car in Europe in 2001, and imported it to the United States, where it has remained since.

The car presents nicely with a lovely color combination over straight and solid panels with great fit. The paint makes a strong overall impression, though scrutiny reveals some areas of orange peel and a few small cracks in the finish. The chrome is very nice, and the trim and badging are present and correct throughout. The glass and top are also in fine shape.

The interior is in nice shape as well. The dashboard, gauges, and switches are in excellent order and are artfully styled and quite evocative of the Art Deco period. The carpets are excellent as well, and the upholstery is in good shape throughout.

The engine compartment is correct and partially detailed. The original tool box is still in place, as are the tools.

This 327 starts easily and drives well. The choke is required when cold, but fully is operational. The front suspension has a nice tight feel and while there is considerable travel in the brake pedal, once at the pressure point the car stops effectively. The speedometer works, as the amp meter, and the oil pressure stays pinned when cold. The transmission, while somewhat characteristic of a pre-war design, operates well. The engine is very responsive to light throttle input and free-revving, much like an AC Bristol. Prior to driving the car any distance, the water pump should be serviced.

This is an exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire a fascinating piece of automotive history in excellent running condition. The car is striking and elegant, and is in ideal condition to be used and enjoyed in the wide range of events for which it is eligible. The car comes with photographic documentation from its restoration, and is sure to be an interesting conversation piece wherever it goes.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608