BMW

BMW 700

700cc, 30bhp, max 70mph, the BMW 700 wasn't going to set the European roads alight. The diminutive but noisy twin cylinder motorcycle engine was positioned in the back which helped to reduce noise intrusion.

The Giovanni Michelotti designed car was availlable in saloon, coupe or convertible form, you could even specify the high performance version which gave twin carburettors and a top speed of 80 mph.The sports car versions even acquitted themselves well in saloon car racing in the 1960s.

During the 1950s BMW had concentrated on motorcycle and bubblecar production but had seen their financial situation deteriorate. In 1961 a 1500 cc version was manufactured to compliment the 700 cc and helped to boost sales and bring BMW away from financial ruin. The BMW sold 188,000 700s between 1959 and 1965 and helped to put them on the road to becoming the motoring giant they are today.