History of the BMW

BMW the ultimate driving machine is a slogan that creates a bond between the car and the driver.

Initially the manufacturer of aircraft engines BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werks) dates to 1913 when Kar Friedraich Rapp started his business.

Through a series of mergers with other firms --- the BMW we celebrate today recognizes its formal beginning March 7, 1916. By 1919, although successful in the aircraft industry BMS turned to boat, truck and farming equipment engines and machinery.

In 1932 a new model car is launched... the 3/20PS a 782cc 4 cylinder unit with suspended values and a double chain driving the car shaft.

In 1933 the 303 saloon was the first of six cylinder launched and remains today. Yhr 303 was also the first BMS to use the twin kidney shaped radiator grilles. 1934 introduced the air cooled engine; l935 BMW enters the motorcycle industry with the K12.

The 328 Roadster debuts in l936 and it is a still a legend in racing history and recognized as one of the most beautiful cars created by BMS.

With the outbreak of the war in the early 40’s car production stopped and BMS once again produced jet engines. In 1944 the Munih plant was destroyed but the Alach plan remained viable. At the end of the war with plants destroyed the company begins repairing US Army automobiles and making space parts for farming machines and bicycles --- first with a lightweight aluminum frame.

BMW finally returned to the market place in 1949 entering the motorcycle with its first model since l941.

In 1952 the first post war car --- the VE 501 luxury sedan came to market. Demand was low and the 501 did not meet expectations. Motorcycles continued to lead the way and by 1953 BMS produced its 100,000 motorcycle.

In 1955 the BMW Isetta won the hearts of the public followed by 507 in l956 which may be the most widely recognized classic BMW of the 1950’s. By 1959 the 700 model brought BMS back into a viable brand and by July 1960 20,000 700’s are produced and sold.

The 60’s saw the introduction of the BMW 1500, the BMW 1800 and BMW 1600 and by 1965 BMW exits from the jet engine marketplace to concentrate on cars. In the late 60’s BMW launches its large “new six” sedans.

In 1970 BMW is a commercial success in the luxury car marketplace. The BMW 3.0CSL causes a furor when it comes to the marketplace.

The BMW 2002 Turbo was the first mass produced turbo. In 1974 the 3.0 CSL -- nicknamed the bat mobile – was the first gullwing produced by BMW.

Throughout the 70’s BMW continues to introduce the 6 and then 7 luxury sedans and continued supremacy on the racing circuit.