BMW 328 Kamm Coupe to be revived after 70 years

The car, a modern-day replica of the original BMW 328 Kamm Coupé, a famous race car of the WWII era, marks a rebuilding effort that stretches back to the mid-1990s. BMW used documents from its own archives and private collectors to replicate the classic coupe. Computer aided calculations carried out in BMW's development department and skilled body craftsmen were also employed in the development of the concept car.

The original BMW 328 Kamm Coupé was considered to be ahead of its time in the use lightweight construction techniques and aerodynamics.

Following the 1940 race victory, BMW wished to preserve the cars from the growing devastation of the war, and relocated them from Munich to the relative safety of the German countryside. Its efforts were successful, and all five examples of the 328 Kamm Coupé survived the war unscathed.

Unfortunately, as the post-war years took their toll on the country, the collection of silver coupes was divided among buyers from all over the globe, with only one Kamm Coupé remaining in Germany. That car was acquired by former BMW Director of Racing, Ernst Loof for his personal use but was sold a few years later as he suffered dire financial difficulties. The car was destroyed in an accident involving its new owner in the early 1950s and sent to the scrapyard.

For Karl Baumer, the project has been an incredible challenge, one he hopes will be enjoyed by all when the car is unveiled at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in a few short weeks.

The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, one of the world's most significant celebrations of historic cars, will be held in the grounds of the Grand Hotel Villa d'Este by Lake Como, Italy from April 23 - 25.