Zundfolge/BMW History

BMW Motors for Airplanes

By David Lightfoot | October 15th, 2024
When BMW Engines Were for AirplanesWhen BMW Engines Were for Airplanes

Most members will know that BMW’s original business was mostly building airplane engines. After the First World War, BMW was prohibited from building airplane engines for a few years, but by 1930, the company had a full lineup of engines to power airplanes.

This wonderful photo was taken at a trade show in Berlin in 1930. There are nine engines on display. In the back row, from left to right, are the BMW IIIa, BMW IV, and the BMW Va. The middle row, again from left to right, the BMW V prototype, BMW Hornet (radial), and BMW VIII. The front row, left to right, showcases the BMW VIIa, BMW VI, and the BMW IX.

And you thought the current iX was a new name. Turns out there was an IX over 90 years ago.

Photo courtesy of BMW AG.

Related Content

Puget Sound Chapter LogosPuget Sound Chapter Logos
BMW History

The End of BMW ACA

And Old Chapter Icon Lives OnAnd Old Chapter Icon Lives On
BMW History

The Tale of Two Local Race Cars

Group photo of five BMW Art CarsGroup photo of five BMW Art Cars
BMW History

BMW Art Car Collection

Continue Reading

Rearview MirrorRearview Mirror
Next Article
Driver Education

Time to Reflect on Mirror Usage

M2 at 140 mphM2 at 140 mph
Previous Article
Driver Education

Thinking About Trying HPDE?

ZündfolgeEventsArchivePartnersVolunteerJoin
ZündfolgeEventsArchivePartnersVolunteerJoin
BMW CCA
DRIVING PROGRAMS
OverviewCar Control ClinicsHigh Performance Driving (HPDE)Driver Resources

© 2026 BMW Car Club of America|Privacy Policy|Terms of Use