BMW/EMW 340-0

The BMW 340 is considered one of the first post-war developments in automobile construction in Germany. The rare Type 340-0 originated in Eisenach at the foot of the historic Wartburg in Thuringia. One of the last vehicles has now been painstakingly restored by Oldtimerrestauration Klinke in Verl. One of only three vehicles of this type still in existence. This BMW 340 restored by Oldtimerrestauration Klinke is from 1950 and belongs to the rare zero series, which at that time still came off the production line as a BMW and not as an EMW. Compared to its successor, it has several changes and special features. The small but decisive differences between the BMW 340-0 and its successor, the EMW 340-2, were very important during the restoration, because they made it possible to identify the types perfectly. From the outside, the front and rear mudguards gave a visible clue, with the full cover of the rear wheels being conspicuous. The BMW 340-0 could also be recognised by its split and hinged windscreen.

Oldtimerestauration Klinke received the vehicle in a very dilapidated condition. From 2015 to 2020, the vehicle was fully restored in Verl with interruptions. The small but subtle differences between the BMW and the EMW did not make it any easier. Elaborate research was necessary and, as it turned out, there are only three vehicles of this type left in the world. Fortunately, there is a BMW/ EMW 340 meeting every two years where one can get important information.

This is also how we learned about a dealer in Eberswalde who still had parts of this post-war car. Furthermore, old photos helped with the restoration. It turned out that an old BMW 340 had already been in the workshop of senior Edmund Klinke in 2002. In addition to the extensive bodywork, the engine also had to be completely overhauled. The BMW 340-0 was then given its original two-tone paintwork, which indicates that the car was intended for export at the time. According to conservative estimates, there are still about 120 to 150 EMW models in existence. There are still three BMW 340-0s in existence, two restored and one unrestored model.