The BMW 320i Gr.5 is based on the second generation of the BMW 3 Series, which was produced from 1975 to 1983. This car hails from the E21 series, created as a successor to the super popular BMW 02 model. The more refined E21 laid the groundwork for the 3 Series that's still celebrated today. While the regular models were all about practicality and sportiness, this specially designed Group 5 race car was a no-holds-barred, aerodynamically enhanced, and powerful racing version. It was mainly built for international touring car championships and was a real showstopper on the racetrack with its low profile and eye-catching bodywork.
The BMW 320i Gr.5 packed a punch with a 2.0-liter (about 122 cubic inches) four-cylinder turbocharged engine featuring a Kugelfischer fuel injection system. In its racing trim, the engine could crank out up to 300 horsepower, which was pretty impressive back in the day. Thanks to a lightweight design that weighed just around 780 kilograms (about 1,720 pounds), this beast achieved top-notch performance stats. The design screamed speed, with wide fenders, a striking spoiler, and a heavily modified front bumper that not only helped with aerodynamics but also kept the engine cool. A huge shoutout goes to talented engineers like Paul Rosche who handled the engine tech, and designer Giovanni Michelotti, whose design flair is evident in the car's lines.
The BMW 320i Gr.5 racked up some seriously impressive results in motorsport. It competed in the German Racing Sports Championship (DRM) and even made a mark in international series like the IMSA GT Championship. Well-known drivers like Hans-Joachim Stuck and Ronnie Peterson took the wheel and helped boost its fame. Especially in the 1980s, this car was a tough competitor against other touring cars thanks to its reliable tech and adaptability to different racing conditions. The combination of aerodynamic tweaks and a powerful engine really solidified the BMW 320i Gr.5 as a force to be reckoned with.
This detailed miniature of the BMW 320i Gr.5 comes from Minichamps and is made in 1/43 scale. It belongs to model collector "TrolleyJack". The model sports a classic orange paint job associated with the Jägermeister brand, which has strong ties to motorsport. You can spot various sponsorship logos, including Castrol, Goodyear, and Bosch. The fine details—like the intricate wheels, cockpit printing, and precise replication of the spoiler—showcase the quality and ambition of Minichamps. The authentic placement of logos along the body and the accurately proportioned design of the race car make this piece a must-have for collectors.
The eye-catching orange finish gives the model a high recognition factor. The accurate sponsor logos of Jägermeister and the prominently displayed number 15 on the door and hood really stand out. The broad fenders are especially characteristic, perfectly capturing the racing look of the BMW 320i Gr.5. The carefully crafted rear wing and side vents impress with their precision. The miniature also includes small details like side mirrors and finely detailed racing tires, rounding out the overall design. For model collectors, this 1/43 scale miniature from Minichamps offers a realistic depiction of a legendary racing car.
Chriskitt
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Super nice car 👍👍👍❤️💙🤍💪
Chriskitt
Auto-translated
Super nice car 👍👍👍❤️💙🤍💪