1939 BMW 335
BMW entered the sports car
fray with their front-engine, rear-wheel-drive 335 in 1939, producing over 400
between its inception and 1941.
Looking at the 40s cars’ modern-day ancestor, it’s
clear to see a lot has changed in the years since the 40s, but the 335 badge
endures in a BMW range that’s seen seemingly endless niche upon niche added,
tweaked or removed. 3.5-litre straight-six at the front, luxury cabin in the
middle and power sent to the back has proven a strong formula for the German
manufacturer.
The original 335 of the 30s and 40s had just 90 bhp,
allowing it to reach a not astronomical 90mph – less powerful than many
competitors of the time but full power output was available from just
3500 rpm, making for a spritely and useful bit of poke which was consistently at
the disposal of the driver.
