This year, BMW celebrates the 50th anniversary of the iconic M division. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or not, everyone knows the road presence and appeal of these models – with a community of M series fans spread across the globe.
As well as celebrating five decades of powerful technology, sheer passion and a love for cars, BMW aims to give a new lease of life to the M lifestyle. Check out the brand’s huddle speech video – We Are M.
The M range has an undisputed reputation in the car industry for sleek looks and distinctive power. So, it’s no wonder this line of models still proves a popular option for car lovers today. Let’s take a quick look at why the Motorsport division is such a hit…
M Division: through the decades
Humble beginnings in the 1970s
BMW first started racing cars in the 1960s and 70s and created a racing program during this period. Subsequently, the M division was founded in 1972 and bought a range of enhanced models to the roads to complement its car portfolio.
This division started small with 35 employees. In 1978, the world had its first peek at BMW’s first car with an M badge – the M1. This model was launched at Paris Motor Show and featured a 277bhp six-cylinder engine capable of speeds of up to 165mph.
Only 456 BMW M1s were manufactured. However, a year later, what enthusiasts call the first proper M car was developed – the BMW M535i. Of course, with another high-performance engine, a 3.5-litre 215bhp M303B34 powerhouse, this model was another big hit in the M series.
Other M models followed, and a trend of dressing up lesser models with an M badge became a trend, which still happens today.
Expansion in the 1980s
Moving into the 80s, many say that the launch of the E30 BMW M3 in 1986 was the brand’s big year. This year saw the introduction of a model with a 2.3-litre four-cylinder 16-valve engine. BMW later launched the Evolution and Sport Evolution models, which impressed with 217bhp and 235bhp.
Moving to the latter part of the 1980s, BMW released the E34 M5, its fastest four-door saloon topping 177mph. Another highlight in this year was the 850CSi. While it didn’t carry the M name, this model was the end result of the M8 prototype. With a whopping 5.6-litre V12 engine, it became BMW’s flagship car.
By 1988, the number of employees had grown considerably to around 400.
1990s and beyond
The 1990s saw models such as the E36 M3 and variations in body shape with a coupe, saloon and convertible versions. This decade also introduced BMW’s hybrid model, the Z3.
As technology started ramping up in the 2000s, so did BMW’s M division offerings. The third generation of M3 came onto the market. Plus, the car maker’s more innovative M5 had links to the brand’s Formula One contribution.
In 2009, BMW shifted its attention to the SUV market with the first M series in this range – the X5 M and X6 M. Fans of the M division were torn on whether this type of car should get the M badge. But with a 4.4-litre V8 under the bonnet, it was hard to argue against the decision.
Stepping it up a notch, recent models have allowed impressive technology and performance to take centre stage. A track-focused M4 GTS, M2 Competition, X3 M and M8 all cut the mustard. But the hot topic of conversation in BMW’s newest models is the XM.
The new concept BMW XM
Hailed as BMW’s most powerful car, the brand is celebrating its 50th anniversary with its second bespoke model – the XM.
This large SUV is BMW’s first electrified car and features a hybrid powertrain alongside a 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine. It’s going up against rivals such as Audi’s RS Q8 and the Range Rover Sport SVR and will be sold only as an M car. However, unlike other models in the range, this vehicle is set apart with unique styling, technology and drivetrain. So, the price tag will reflect its exclusive aesthetic and performance.
Under the bonnet, the engine boasts 740bhp, and while it’s pretty big size-wise, it’s still the brand’s most powerful offering. Another bonus of this model is its electric-only range. So, for shorter journeys, you’ll get up to 50 miles range before it switches over to petrol power.
Everything about this car will be a mix of luxury and sport. Interior trim, exterior design accents, and high-spec onboard tech make the XM a luxurious and driver-centric ride.
Celebrating 50 years with BMW
Bringing back the logo
To mark its anniversary, BMW is bringing back the original BMW Motorsport logo for buyers of the M model and the M Sport package. This classic emblem pays homage to the first M model to take to the track, and features on the front, back and wheel hubs in pride of place.
In the original logo, the colours have a significant meaning. Blue is the colour of the brand, while red symbolises racing which is a major element in the Motorsport division.
Alongside the logo, there’s also a choice of classic car colours available, which come from BMW’s back catalogue. These include:
- Daytona Violet
- Fire Orange
- Imola Red
- Macao Blue
- Dakar Yellow
- Frozen Marina Blue
The M Love Book
The M Love book is available to purchase if you’re a massive fan of the M series and want something special to celebrate 50 years of the brand. It features a host of interviews, insights and photos that capture this much-loved range’s essence.
M Series style
The M Series is renowned for its design and style accents. So, its collaboration with Puma brings these concepts together in a fashionable range. Add a t-shirt, jacket or cap to your collection to highlight your passion for the We Are M movement.
Join the M division with Leasing Options
Looking for performance and style in your next leasing deal? Check out the range of BMWs available in the M Series for a fun and exhilarating ride.
