ICONIC MODELS FROM BMW

BMW has spent a lot of time pushing the boundaries of the automotive industry, and the results are pretty clear. Over the years, the automaker created vehicles that not only performed well, but also changed the industry at large. These iconic models became ingrained in the history of the car community when they were first introduced and continue to spark interest years later. The team here at BMW of Catonsville has put together some of our favorite BMW models throughout the years to celebrate how far the brand has come.

E30 M3

Our first BMW model isn’t just an icon for the brand, but for the entire automotive industry. From the moment that BMW introduced the first generation of the M3, it was destined to be an icon. It’s boxy, yet sporty body lines are instantly recognizable today as the inaugural M3 model. The styling is still evident in the new M3, illustrating just how timeless the design truly is. The brakes, suspension, and damping the E30 M3 were tuned for racing applications, but also created an impeccable daily driver. While the 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine and 195 horsepower may not sound like much, but the low curb-weight allowed the E30 M3 to rocket from 0 to 60 mph quickly. This platform gained a cult following, as well as a reputation in the racing community for being one of the most remarkable vehicles ever made. 

M1

The E30 M3 took some lessons from this model. When designers and engineers set out to create the BMW M1, they were inspired by the racing heritage of the brand. Each model was handmade, making it one of the most personal models BMW has ever created. The low ride-height and subsequent low center of gravity make the M1 handle perfectly in corners. An Italian designer sculpted the M1 with its pop-up headlights and aerodynamic design, to emanate the idea of sleek performance. Outfitted with a 3.5-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produced 277 horsepower, the M1 wasn't shy when drivers pressed the throttle. Throughout the 70s and 80s, BMW improved upon the sports car before it retired. Design elements from the M1 can still be seen today, if you look very closely at the new BMW i8.

8 Series Coupe

The revived 8 Series Coupe is set to be the brand’s next icon. It boasts aggressive styling, impressive power, and the performance we’ve come to expect from BMW. The 4.4-liter V8 engine produces an astonishing 523 horsepower, with a little help from two turbochargers, as well as variable valve control. The 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission gives the driver total control over how the 8 Series performs and an M Sport differential helps maintain perfect traction. Aluminum suspension, xDrive all-wheel-drive, and ventilated brake discs round out the performance of this car, creating the next generation’s automotive icon.

Today, BMW is one of the largest car manufacturers in the world and continues to create vehicles that push the industry to the next level. If you’re ready to own what is sure to become a cornerstone of automotive history, take a look at our new inventory and then reach out to our team to schedule a test drive today.

Image Credit: BMW