BMW have been responsible for producing a variety of memorable cars over the years. One of the earliest models that gained a reputation was the BMW 501 for its design and practicality. Nicknamed Baroque Angel, the car stood out for its curved, flowing style. The car was interesting as well because it was manufactured by the Soviet company Autovelo, due to the factory being located in a Soviet occupation zone. We’re looking into how the 501 was developed.
Origins
The 501 was produced in Eisenach in 1945, a Soviet occupied territory. Even though Autovelo designed the car it was badged and sold as a BMW. This was the case until 1949 when the Eisenach branch of BMW was dissolved.
The car was designed in house by Peter Schimanowski. The wide chassis provided extra protection, especially from side impacts. It utilised an M337 engine and four-speed gearbox that wasn’t bolted down. The gearbox acted as a separate shaft-driven unit mounted between the second and third crossmembers. Steering bore similarities to a rack and pinion system, though the rack had a semi-circular shape.
The heaviness of the steel body led to a reduction in speed. 501s were clocked at reaching a top speed of 84 mph and accelerating to 62 mph in 27 seconds.
Public reaction
In 1951, the 501 was introduced to the world at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The public reacted favourably, praising the luxurious appearance and reliable engineering. Despite the favourable reaction, development issues led to production being pushed back until 1952. The company persevered and the thousandth 501 was completed on 1st September 1953.
A 1953 road test, carried out by the German magazine Auto-und Motorrad-Welt, reported the 501 had good wind resistance and ride quality. The 501 made way for future models like the 502, which became the first German post-war V8-powered car. The BMW 501 is an important model within the history of the German automotive industry.
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