The Birth of BMW: Tracing the Legacy of the First BMW
July 20 2023 - BMW of Bridgewater
When it comes to iconic automobile manufacturers, BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) stands proudly at the forefront. Founded over a century ago, BMW has since become synonymous with luxury, performance, and innovation. In this blog, we take a journey back in time to explore the fascinating story of the very first BMW, laying the foundation for the illustrious brand we know and love today.
In 1916, in the midst of World War I, the Bayerische Flugzeugwerke AG (Bavarian Aircraft Works) was established in Munich, Germany. Initially, the company focused on building aircraft engines for the German military. However, after the war, the Treaty of Versailles prohibited the production of aircraft engines, and the company had to pivot to new ventures.
In 1917, Karl Rapp, the founder of the Bayerische Flugzeugwerke, resigned, and the company underwent a reorganization. It was then that Franz Josef Popp, Max Friz, and Camillo Castiglioni founded a new company named Bayerische Motoren Werke GmbH.
In 1929, BMW ventured into the automobile industry with the launch of its first-ever car, the BMW 3/15 DA-2. Also known as the Dixi 3/15, this compact and affordable car was based on the design of the British Austin 7, with BMW securing a license to produce it in Germany.
The BMW 3/15 was powered by a 747cc, 4-cylinder engine that delivered 15 horsepower, which was sufficient to propel the lightweight car to a top speed of 47 miles per hour. Although not a high-performance vehicle, it quickly gained popularity due to its reliability, efficiency, and affordability.
The Dixi 3/15 featured a two-door sedan body style, accommodating four passengers comfortably. With its charming and minimalist design, the car appealed to the practical needs of urban dwellers, making it a practical choice for daily transportation.
The BMW 3/15 DA-2 was a significant success for the fledgling company, marking the beginning of BMW's reputation for producing reliable, well-engineered automobiles. As demand for the Dixi increased, BMW expanded its production capabilities, solidifying its position in the automotive market.
In 1928, BMW acquired the Automobilwerk Eisenach, which had been manufacturing the Dixi under license, making it an official part of the BMW family. Subsequently, BMW began to produce more models, each one showcasing engineering excellence and the brand's commitment to producing "The Ultimate Driving Machine."
The story of the first BMW, the 3/15 DA-2, highlights the determination and resilience of the founders and marks the birth of an iconic brand. From its humble beginnings as a manufacturer of aircraft engines to becoming a symbol of luxury and performance in the automotive world, BMW has indeed come a long way.
#bmw #bmw3/15 #bmwdixi #dixi #firstbmw #bmwnj
#bmw #bmw3/15 #bmwdixi #dixi #firstbmw #bmwnj
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