Welcome back to Carshistory1! In our last post, we saw how BMW broke the 100 km/h barrier with the 1.5-litre BMW 315. But in the automotive world, the quest for more power never stops. By 1935, BMW was ready to take the next step, introducing a more muscular sibling to their lineup: the BMW 319.
From 1.5 to 1.9 Litres: The Evolution of the Inline-Six
The core philosophy behind the BMW 319 was simple: more displacement equals more power. BMW engineers took the highly successful 1.5-litre inline-six engine from the 315 and developed it into a robust 1.9-litre power unit.
However, BMW used a fascinating strategy to introduce this new engine. Instead of putting it straight into their standard family cars, the 1.9-litre engine made its grand debut in a purebred sports car—the legendary BMW 319/1. Only after proving its performance capabilities on the road and track was the engine (with a slightly lower, more manageable output) introduced into the standard series production models.
BMW 315 vs. BMW 319: What Was the Difference?
To the untrained eye, the BMW 315 and the new BMW 319 looked almost identical. They shared the same beautiful bodywork and core engineering. However, under the skin, the 319 featured crucial upgrades to handle the extra power:
- Different Gear Ratios: Adjusted to maximize the torque and higher top speed of the 1.9-litre engine.
- Larger Fuel Tank: Because a bigger, more powerful engine naturally required more fuel for long journeys.
Interestingly, BMW didn't replace the 315 with the 319. Instead, they sold both models in parallel between 1935 and 1937, allowing customers to choose between standard performance and premium power.
A Symphony of Body Styles
Just like its predecessor, the BMW 319 was supplied in five standard body versions. Additionally, a small, exclusive number of sports convertibles were manufactured by renowned independent coachbuilders like Reutter and Drauz. Let's look at the beautiful variations of the 319:
1. BMW 319 Sedan
The standard closed-body sedan offered an incredibly smooth and powerful ride for families, hiding a large 1.9-litre engine under a classy, understated exterior.
2. BMW 319 Convertible 4-Seater
Combining the joy of open-top motoring with the capability to comfortably seat four adults, this was the ultimate weekend cruiser of 1935.
3. BMW 319 Convertible Sedan
Offering the structural integrity of the sedan with a large roll-back roof, it was a practical yet fun option for the changing European weather.
The Star of the Show: BMW 319/1 Sports Car
The undisputed king of the 319 lineup was the 319/1 sports car. This was the car that introduced the 1.9-litre engine to the world. With its lightweight roadster body, aerodynamic sweeping lines, and the full un-detuned power of the new engine, it was a formidable machine on the racing circuits and a symbol of absolute prestige on the streets.
Quick Specs Overview:
- Launch Year: 1935 (sold until 1937)
- Engine: 1.9-litre Inline Six-Cylinder
- Development: Bored out from the 1.5L BMW 315 engine
- Key Upgrades: Revised gear ratios and a larger fuel tank
- Special Editions: Custom coachwork by Reutter and Drauz available
The BMW 319 and its sporty twin, the 319/1, solidified BMW's reputation as a manufacturer capable of producing serious performance vehicles. The legacy of putting race-proven engines into road cars was firmly established. Stay with us at Carshistory1 as we continue to shift through the gears of automotive history!
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