BMW 320i Racing - 1/24

BMW 320i RACING

1/24 scale plastic model kit of the BMW 320i Racing - 24 Hours of Daytona 1977.

About the model:
- 1/24 scale plastic model assembly kit
- Highly detailed model
- Length: 203 mm
- Width: 85 mm
- Height: 55 mm.
- The racy form with pronounced overfenders, spoiler and wing is captured in style.
- Features realistic depictions of the inline-4 DOHC engine and the interior with roll cage. 
- Tires have Goodyear engravings.
- Comes with high-quality Cartograf decals, metal transfers, and one driver figure.

History:
For the 1977 racing season, BMW introduced the spectacular 320i Racing, developed according to the liberal Group 5 regulations of the period. Although its basic silhouette was derived from the E21-generation BMW 320i road car, the competition version was transformed into a highly specialized racing machine with dramatically widened wheel arches, a deep front spoiler and a large rear wing. Extensive aerodynamic development helped give the car its unmistakable appearance.

At the heart of the BMW 320i Racing was the naturally aspirated BMW M12/7 engine, a 1,998cc DOHC inline-four with four valves per cylinder. Producing approximately 298hp at 9,250rpm, the compact engine gave the lightweight racing car impressive performance. Power was transmitted to the rear wheels through a five-speed gearbox, while the extensively modified chassis, racing suspension and powerful disc brakes were designed specifically for competition use.

The BMW 320i made its international competition debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona in February 1977. Driven by David Hobbs, Ronnie Peterson and Sam Posey, the BMW Motorsport entry showed the potential of the new machine before retiring with engine trouble.

During the remainder of the season, the 320i became a major force in the under-2-liter category of the World Championship for Makes. Among its successes was a class victory at the 6 Hours of Silverstone with Ronnie Peterson and Helmut Kelleners, followed by further strong performances and victories during the season. BMW ultimately secured the 1977 World Championship for Makes title in the 2-liter category.

The 320 also played an important role in the German Racing Championship, where BMW's newly established Junior Team fielded cars for young talents Marc Surer, Manfred Winkelhock and Eddie Cheever. Its combination of aggressive Group 5 styling, advanced engineering and racing success made the BMW 320i Racing one of the most distinctive touring cars of the late 1970s and an important chapter in BMW Motorsport history.