During the 1930s, BMW became known for its excellent six-cylinder models, which set new standards for the era.

Arguably the most elegant of these was the 327, which was launched in 1937.

Among the most desirable variants to leave the Eisenach works was the 327/28, which benefitted from a triple-carburetted 1,971 cc straight-six engine producing 80 horsepower.

Built in 1939, chassis 74455 was specified as a rare BMW 327/8 Coupé, leaving the factory for Portugal on 2 March and registered “OR-10-52” three weeks later.

In August 1949, then owner Dr Antonio Oliveira Martinho participated in the II Rallye Nacional de Miramar.

The car is also said to have been entered in the Rallye Monte-Carlo—although the story goes that it failed to make the start due to a seized engine.

Possibly as a result of this incident, the BMW block was, at some point, replaced with a Bristol unit.

Following its rally career, the 327 is said to have been acquired by a Portuguese wine-grower, and eventually ret...