BMW 1500, 1962

BMW 1500, 1962

The BMW New Class was a line of compact sedans launched with the 1962 1500. The four-cylinder BMW M10 engine used in these cars grew over the years from 1.5 to 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0 L with the names changing to reflect this.

The New Class models featured a fully independent suspension with MacPherson struts in front and front disc brakes.

The sedan models (with numbers ending in "0") were replaced by the larger BMW 5 Series in 1972. The '02 series is not part of the New Class. The upscale 2000C and 2000CS coupes were replaced by the six-cylinder BMW E9 coupes, introduced in 1969 with the 2800CS.

Although they shared mechanicals such as engines, gearboxes, and differentials, the four-door New Class models shared little else in terms of parts and design with the two-door models.

1500 (4 door)
Introduced in September 1961 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the 1500 was produced from 1962 through 1966. In 1963, the nearly bankrupt BMW was able to pay its first dividend in 20 years due to increased sales thanks to the popularity of the 1500. It was replaced in 1964 by the 1600, but it was still made available in a few markets where higher capacity engines meant increased taxation. It was able to achieve 80 hp (59 kW). The 1961 1500 was the first car to feature the Hofmeister kink in the C-pillar.