Bill Auberlen Reflects on a Storied Career in Motorsports
Veteran road racer Bill Auberlen, with an illustrious career tally of 91 wins, 224 podiums, and 56 poles, discusses the evolution of his racing journey and the impact of technology on performance in an interview on Racers Unchained. At 17, Auberlen transitioned from motocross to cars, debuting in the prestigious Daytona 24 Hours. He recalls, “You just get thrown in the deep end… I felt more comfortable in a race car than I ever was on a motorcycle.”
Auberlen initially aimed for open-wheel success, considering an IndyCar opportunity with Hogan Racing that ultimately went to Dario Franchitti. Instead, he committed to a three-year deal with BMW, marking the beginning of a partnership spanning over 30 years. “You never know – Is that the right way or the wrong way?” Auberlen reflects on that decision, emphasizing his continuous role in talent development within BMW.
The complexities of sports car racing become evident as Auberlen shares insights on navigating multiple vehicle types in a single weekend. He often switches between prototypes and GTs, necessitating adaptability. “The moment a good driver leaves a pit lane, he knows what he’s got under him,” he explains, highlighting that understanding vehicle dynamics is crucial.
Discussing technical aspects, Auberlen recalls his experience with the BMW V12 LM and LMR during a powerful era of prototypes. The cars boasted significant horsepower and downforce, nearing IndyCar performance levels. He reveals plans to race an adapted engine in IndyCar, which were ultimately scrapped due to technical issues.
When asked about his favorite BMW race car, Auberlen cites his debut at Le Mans in the McLaren F1 longtail, noting the adrenaline of exiting the pit lane at high speed. He also highlights the E92 M3 as the best-balanced car he has driven, showcasing the evolution of BMW’s engineering.
Auberlen continues to engage with BMW’s historic division, regularly testing and sharing insights on a range of vehicles. His deep connection to racing and commitment to nurturing future talent underscore Auberlen’s enduring legacy in motorsports.
For more insights and anecdotes from Auberlen’s remarkable journey, the full interview is available on Racers Unchained.
