BMW 3/15 PS DA2 (1929)User ChiemseeMan on de.wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

BMW 3/15 PS DA2

1929 — Germany

Pre-War (before 1946)German
Engine743 cc
DrivetrainRWD

BMW 3/15 PS DA2

BMW entered automobile manufacturing in 1929 by licensing the Austin Seven design from England, producing it as the 3/15 PS (tax horsepower designation). The tiny car featured a 743cc four-cylinder engine producing 15 hp, adequate for the lightweight 450 kg vehicle. BMW made numerous improvements over the original Austin design, enhancing quality and performance. The DA2 roadster variant offered sporting appeal with its lightweight open bodywork. Approximately 16,000 units were produced across all body styles before BMW developed their own designs with the 3/20. The 3/15 established BMW's reputation for building quality small cars and remains historically significant as their first automobile.