BMW has long followed a policy of racing cars and engines derived from production vehicles. Until BMW entered Formula One with Williams using its V10 unit in 2000, every single engine raced by BMW had been derived from a production unit. As the company celebrates its centenary, it seems appropriate to examine its competitive heartland—touring cars. Following pre-war glory with its iconic 328, the 1940s and 1950s brought BMW to its knees. While the 328’s six-pot engine formed the basis…

1975 ETCC Champions Alain Peltier and Siegfried Müller oversteer their 3.0 CSL.
Photo: Chris Willows Collection