The BMW Bavaria was basically a 2500 sedan with the 2800 motor. The Bavaria was a US-only model that BMW had marketed for its outstanding engine and suspension as well as for its value. The 6-cylinder engine was designed by Baron Alexander von Falkenhausen, a racing legend and the architect of the New Class engines. It was a Hemi-head engine – a triple hemispheric, swirl-action combustion chamber cylinder head – to be precise. With an overhead camshaft, and a crankshaft that has 7 main bearings and 12 balance weights.
The brain child of Max Hoffman, BMW’s chief US importer at the time, the Bavaria’s most important feature to consumers was a low price tag. At less than $5000 in the early 70’s, the car was considered a bargain.
The Bavaria nameplate was used to connect the car with its German origins, putting BMW alongside Mercedes in the luxury, performance market. It worked beautifully. Today, the BMW Bavaria has one other distinction: it was the personal choice of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, a woman who certainly could have afforded any car in the world. After her death, the car was auctioned on eBay for over $57,000. A far cry from the $5,000 Wundercar.
More detailed information on the Bavarias
1972 BMW Bavaria Specifications
1971 - Road and Track - Bavaria Road Test Article
Below are the specs for the 1971 Bavaria as compiled by Road and Track magazine.
