BMW, or Bayerische Motoren Werke, has come a long way since the company began producing aircraft engines in 1916. From its early days of supporting Germany in World War 1 to becoming one of the world’s leading automakers, BMW has created some of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history. Take a look at ten of the most significant BMW models that have defined the brand from its inception to today, highlighting how BMW’s evolution as a company influenced each milestone vehicle.
10. BMW 3/15 (1929)
BMW entered the automotive industry with its first automobile, the 3/15. This compact car was essentially a remake of the British Austin 7 by the Austin Motor Company. It was a small, affordable car that catered to the needs of the emerging middle class in Germany. The 3/15 was a crucial step in BMW’s transition from aircraft engines into the automotive industry. At the time, BMW was struggling to redefine itself after World War I, as restrictions on aircraft manufacturing forced the company to diversify. The 3/15 provided an entry point into the mass-market automobile sector, helping the brand establish a foothold in the competitive automotive industry.
9. BMW 328 (1936)
As BMW gained experience in car manufacturing, it shifted its focus to performance and engineering excellence. The 328, a lightweight roadster recognized for its outstanding performance, advanced engine, and elegant design, was the first BMW model to succeed when it won the prestigious Mille Miglia endurance race in 1940, cementing BMW’s reputation as a performance-oriented brand. The 328 could reach a top speed of 90 mph (145 kmh), making it one of the fastest cars of its time. Production halted in the late 1930s, however, as Germany faced the outbreak of World War II and BMW shifted from civilian to military vehicles.
8. BMW 507 (1956)
After World War II, BMW faced financial difficulties and struggled to regain its place in the automotive world. The 507 was a bold attempt to enter the luxury sports car market and compete with Mercedes-Benz’s 300SL. Featuring an aluminum body, a 3.2-liter V8 engine, and stunning aesthetics, the 507 attracted high-profile customers, including Elvis Presley. However, its high production costs made it unprofitable, leading to only 252 units being made. Despite its commercial failure, the 507 remains a symbol of BMW’s ambition to create world-class luxury sports cars.
7. BMW 700 (1959)
In the late 1950s, BMW still faced significant financial turmoil and responded by experimenting with smaller car designs. The result was the 700, which played a crucial role in saving the company from collapse. This compact, rear-engine coupe marked a shift toward smaller, more affordable cars to appeal to a broader audience. Its compact size made it ideal for urban driving and parking. Powered by an air-cooled, twin-cylinder engine, the 700 was the first BMW to feature a monocoque body structure, which improved its weight and rigidity. Its success not only boosted BMW’s financial standing but also paved the way for future models that ensured the company’s long-term survival and growth.
6. BMW 2002 (1968)
By the late 1960s, BMW had found its footing with the ‘New Class’ of compact sedans, but it was the 2002 that truly defined the brand’s identity. An instant hit, the 2002 elevated BMW’s status in the automotive space. It combined practicality with sporty performance, appealing to driving enthusiasts worldwide. This model laid the groundwork for BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” slogan, which emphasized precision handling and driver engagement. The 2002’s success played a key role in BMW’s growth during this period, allowing it to expand its reach in the global market.
5. BMW E21 (1975)
BMW introduced the E21 as the first generation of the 3 Series, a model that would become the best-selling and most important car in BMW’s lineup. The E21 introduced BMW’s now-iconic kidney grille and driver-focused cockpit design. It blended performance with everyday usability, making it a hit among enthusiasts. This model established the 3 Series as the benchmark for compact luxury sedans, a legacy that continues to this day.
4. BMW E23 (1977)
The late 1970s marked the beginning of the 7 Series, BMW’s flagship luxury sedan lineup. The first generation, the E23, combined advanced technology with premium comfort, featuring innovations such as onboard computers, electronic climate control, and even an early form of anti-lock braking systems (ABS). It helped BMW establish itself as a serious competitor to Mercedes-Benz in the full-size luxury segment. As the company matured, it sought to compete with high-end European rivals while maintaining its sporting heritage. The E23 laid the groundwork for future generations of the 7 Series, reinforcing BMW’s reputation for blending luxury with performance.
3. BMW E30 M3 (1986)
One of the most legendary sports cars in automotive history, the BMW E30 M3 was originally developed to introduce BMW’s motorsport division, BMW M. It featured a high-revving 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine and razor-sharp handling, making it an instant favorite among enthusiasts. As BMW’s motorsport success grew, so did its reputation for making high-performance road cars. The E30 M3 not only defined the M division but also solidified BMW as a dominant force in both motorsports and high-performance street cars.
2. BMW Z3 (1995)
BMW’s first mass-produced roadster was the Z3, designed to capture the spirit of open-top driving with a mix of performance, style, and affordability. A lightweight and stylish two-seater, the Z3 offered a range of engines, from a modest four-cylinder to a powerful inline-six in the Z3 M variant. It gained worldwide recognition when it appeared in the James Bond film GoldenEye in 1995. The Z3 helped BMW establish itself as a major player in the roadster segment and paved the way for future models like the Z4.
1. BMW E39 M5 (1998)
The late 1990s saw BMW refining its formula for the perfect sports sedan, and the E39 M5 is often regarded as one of the greatest ever built. It was the first M5 to feature a V8 engine, making it a groundbreaking model in BMW’s high-performance sedan lineup. The E39 M5 represented the pinnacle of BMW’s engineering capabilities at the time, with an ideal balance of luxury, technology, and driving dynamics. This era marked BMW’s increasing focus on blending high performance with everyday usability, a philosophy that would define the company in the 21st century.
From its humble beginnings to cutting-edge hybrid technology, BMW has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive excellence. Each of these ten models represents a crucial step in the brand’s evolution, reflecting BMW’s resilience, innovation, and commitment to driving pleasure. As BMW moves into an electric and autonomous future, its history serves as a testament to its ability to adapt while staying true to its core identity.
