Classic BMW Vintage Ads

Founded in 1916, BMW stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke AG or Bavarian Motor Works. Originally an aircraft manufacturer, BMW was restricted from producing aircraft after WWI by the terms of the Versailles Treaty and shifted to motorcycle production. The circular blue and white BMW logo signifies the movement of an airplane propeller. Automobile production began in 1927 with BMW building tiny Austin Sevens under license from Dixi. BMW purchased Dixi the following year and this model would become the company's first car known as the 3-15. 1933 would see BMW producing more luxurious models with advanced six cylinder engines in both saloon and sedan models. BMW AG was heavily bombed towards the end of WWII and the Munich plant was completely destroyed. BMW was again banned from manufacturing after the war and did not produce a motorcycle until 1948 or an automobile until 1952. Sales of the "bubble-car" Isetta helped the company survive into the late 1950's. The small 2-door sedan 1500 was introduced in 1961 and was followed by the new class 1600 and 1800 models in 1966. In 1968, BMW launched the large New Six sedans, 2500, 2800, and American Bavaria. The 1970's would see BMW transform itself from a European-focused manufacturer to a global brand with international prestige and presence. BMW purchased the Rover group in 1994 which included Rover, Mini, Land Rover, Austin, Morris, Riley, Triumph and Wolseley brands. Rover and Land Rover proved to be difficult to market alongside BMW which resulted in their sale in 2000. However, BMW enjoyed huge success with the Mini brand and continues to manufacture and market the Mini, Mini Cooper S, Clubman, and John Cooper Works models.