BMW 100 - Greatest hits
On its road to becoming the builder of ultimate driving machines, BMW produced a lot of memorable vehicles, ranging from a funky bubble car to its futuristic i series models.
Introduced in 1968, the 2002 was developed from the New Class, but the shorter, lighter two-door featured agile driving dynamics that enhanced BMW's sporty image. The 2002 remains a collectors' favorite — and laid the groundwork for its successor, the 3 series.
The first car sold by BMW, this was a rebadged Austin Seven built under license from the British automaker by a company that BMW purchased in 1928.
With its smooth, sculpted lines, the 1930s sports car looks strikingly modern. The 1939 convertible remains a BMW icon.
BMW's first post-World War II car entered production in 1952. Though not a huge sales success, its elegant styling re-established BMW as a luxury marque — and gave the 501 the nickname Baroque Angel.
The first car designed by BMW, it was built from 1932-34.
Designed by the Italian company Iso, the “bubble car” with entry through the front was built under license by several automakers, but most successfully by BMW from 1955-62. It was powered by a one-cylinder BMW motorcycle engine.
Introduced in 1975, the 3 series sets the global standard in the compact performance segment. More than 40 years later, its rivals continue to cite it as their benchmark.
Introduced in 1968, the 2002 was developed from the New Class, but the shorter, lighter two-door featured agile driving dynamics that enhanced BMW's sporty image. The 2002 remains a collectors' favorite — and laid the groundwork for its successor, the 3 series.
BMW's first crossover appeared in 1999. The “Sports Activity Vehicle” blended comfort and performance while retaining an SUV profile.
BMW's flagship sedan arrived in 1977. The second generation 10 years later offered V-8 and V-12 engine options, traction control and stability control. It has continued as a high-powered showcase for luxurious interiors and new technology.
BMW began selling the electrified-drive i series in 2014 after extensively studying automotive sustainability. Built using carbon fiber from a hydropowered U.S. factory, the first two products couldn't have been more different: the electric i3 compact city car and the hybrid i8 high-end performance car.
In 2004, BMW stuck its toe in the water with a compact smaller than the 3 series, which had grown in size and price over the years. The 1 series arrived in the U.S. in 2008.
Here's a sampling.