BMW Group Classic: Keeping Vintage Beauties Alive with Authentic Parts

Discover how BMW Group Classic aids classic car enthusiasts by producing authentic parts for models long out of production, blending heritage with innovation.

No matter the brand or model, all cars eventually show their age, and maintaining them becomes a challenge over time. So how do car manufacturers support owners of classic vehicles while also generating additional revenue? One approach is continuing to produce parts for cars that haven’t been made in decades. BMW has successfully implemented this strategy for the past 30 years.

BMW Group Classic, initially known as BMW Group Mobile Tradition before its 2008 renaming, has been supplying parts for vintage models since its inception in 1994. This revelation might come as a surprise to many, as the luxury German brand is not widely known for catering to the classic car parts market. Curious about this unique aspect of BMW’s business, we spoke with a representative from BMW Group Classic to gain deeper insights.

Marc Thiesbürger, a spokesperson for BMW Group Classic, explained that while some parts are readily available in stock, others are produced upon request. The time it takes to fulfill a special order depends on the part’s complexity, the supplier’s production capabilities, and the geographic location of the customer. BMW predominantly collaborates with European suppliers to reduce shipping costs and the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

Among classic and vintage BMW owners, oil filters and spark plugs are in high demand, with smaller functional components generally being the most sought-after. BMW refers to these newly manufactured components as reproductions, and surprisingly, there are still original parts in stock from years past. BMW Group Classic’s website even features a dedicated section listing available parts, including those for iconic models like the M1 (E26) supercar.

Reproduction parts are also available for vehicles as vintage as the 02 Series from the late 1960s, covering everything from door handles and intake tubes to chrome exhaust tips and hazard light switches. Support extends to the New Six (E3) series and the original iterations of the 3 Series (E21), 5 Series (E12), and 7 Series (E23), as well as the stunning Z8 (E52) roadster.

Prices for these parts can vary greatly from one region to another due to different tax rates across the globe. These components are accessible through BMW dealerships and certified BMW Group Classic partners, with most locations situated in Europe, but with a few in Japan, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

In addition to parts supply, BMW Group Classic runs a specialized workshop at its Munich headquarters, where classic vehicles can be serviced or restored. According to Thiesbürger, this service provides invaluable support to owners looking to breathe new life into their cherished BMWs.