Whether you are a BMW owner or you are looking to buy a BMW for your next car, you may be wondering about the history of the world-renowned German automaker. Here's a look at the history of BMW and the most popular BMW models over time.
BMW Begins
BMW was established in 1916 by an aircraft producer. The abbreviation “BMW” means “Bayerische Motoren Werke." Along with cars, BMW produced a variety of other items as well, including motorcycle engines, railway brakes, farm equipment, and various household items. Although BMW started out producing just engines for motorcycles, the brand eventually expanded into producing motorcycles in addition to cars.
BMW Launches Its First Automobile
For years before it started producing cars, BMW focused primarily on motorcycle engines. In 1923, BMW made its first motorcycle, but its first vehicle was not released until 1928. The first BMW to hit the market was called the BMW 3/15. In the decade that followed, BMW continued to expand and diversify its auto lineup, although its main focus was sports cars and later luxury vehicles. Today, BMW's vehicles are still known for those primary qualities, and many of BMW's most popular modern models contain elements of both.
BMW New Class
In the 1960s, BMW launched the “New Class.” This specialty class of vehicles launched BMW to the forefront of sports cars. BMW's New Class sedans soon set the standard for sport sedans worldwide, and later in the 1960s, the line evolved into more luxurious vehicles as well. The New Class gave rise to some of BMW's most popular model series that are still around today, including the 3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series, all of which were introduced in the 1970s.
BMW Museum and Headquarters
In the early 1970s, BMW set up its headquarters and a BMW museum in Munich, Germany. The administrative center was constructed in 1970, and it was designed in the shape of four cylinders to mimic BMW's famous four-cylinder engines. The complementary BMW museum was designed in a unique bowl shape that still exists and stands out as a landmark in Munich today.
BMW Expands Overseas
In 1994, BMW started selling its vehicles in the U.S. In the 1990s, the company also acquired Rolls-Royce and later expanded to the MINI group of vehicles, which is still popular today.
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