Bid on this BMW Baur Hartge H26 via autobids.be

This BMW Baur TC Hartge H26, first registered on 11 May 1983, represents an exceptionally rare combination of two names inextricably linked with some of the most exclusive BMW creations of the 1980s: Baur and Hartge.

While the Baur TopCabriolet is already a relatively uncommon sight in its own right, the Hartge H26 specification makes this particular example considerably more exclusive. The combination of Baur’s open-top bodywork, Hartge’s six-cylinder engine and its extensive performance-focused equipment places this car within a category of BMWs that very rarely comes to market.

Adding to its appeal is a remarkable ownership history. The car has remained with the same owner since 19 March 1991– a period of more than 35 years – making it a fascinating surviving example from an era when independent German specialists such as Hartge created their own distinctive interpretations of BMW’s latest models.

Hartge H26

During the 1980s, Hartge ranked among Germany’s most respected BMW specialists. The company went far beyond cosmetic modifications, developing complete high-performance versions featuring upgraded engines, suspension systems, exhausts, instrumentation and bespoke exterior and interior components.

The H26 was one of Hartge’s sporting interpretations of the early E30. At its heart was a modified straight-six engine with a displacement of approximately 2.6 litres and an output of around 190 hp – impressive figures for a compact BMW of the early 1980s.

In this car, the H26 specification is combined with the distinctive Baur TopCabriolet bodywork. As BMW did not yet offer its own E30 Cabriolet at the time, Stuttgart-based coachbuilder Baur produced the open-top version. Its characteristic construction, featuring a fixed roll bar, removable roof panel and folding rear hood, gave the TC a character markedly different from that of a conventional E30.

Extensive Hartge Specification

This example not only features the approximately 190 hp Hartge six-cylinder engine, but is also equipped with an extensive selection of Hartge components.

Equipment includes a complete Hartge exhaust system, 7.5 x 16-inch Hartge alloy wheels, front and rear Hartge strut braces, a Hartge rear spoiler, Hartge sports seats, and the distinctive Hartge speedometer calibrated to 280 km/h.

It is precisely this combination of mechanical and visual Hartge components that gives the car the distinctive character of the specialised BMWs for which Hartge became renowned during this period.

The interior was completely renewed in 2006 and presents in well-maintained condition today. The combination of the open Baur configuration, sporting interior and distinctive Hartge details makes the car particularly appealing both from behind the wheel and from a collector’s perspective.

A Rare Combination

What truly sets this car apart is not any single component, but the combination of the Baur TC and Hartge H26.

Baur E30s are already considerably less common today than conventional E30 models. Examples that were additionally built to Hartge H26 specification and feature such a comprehensive selection of Hartge components belong to a much smaller and significantly harder-to-find category.

Unlike a conventional production BMW, cars such as this emerged during an era when specialist German manufacturers and tuners created their own, often highly exclusive interpretations of BMW models. It is precisely these unusual configurations that today occupy a distinctive place within the world of collectible 1980s BMWs.

With its Baur TopCabriolet bodywork, Hartge H26 specification, approximately 190 hp straight-six engine, extensive Hartge equipment and ownership history dating back to 1991, this example represents a particularly compelling survivor from that era.

BMW Baur Hartge H26

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