From the Hofmeister kink to the double headlights and the iconic kidney grille: BMW models have always combined striking style elements that shape the character of the brand (➜ Read also: Car design: the DNA of BMW). The BMW design combines inspiration from the past with visionary thinking, building a bridge to the future. The result? Vehicles with unmistakable lines and proportions. But how distinctive are they?
Think you know BMWs? Test your skills, and guess the models – from timeless classics to modern icons – based on their silhouette alone. Give it a go and have fun!
For maximum enjoyment, hold your phone horizontally.
Can you identify this BMW model just from its silhouette?
BMW M3 (since 1986–1991)
Spot on! This is the first BMW M3 from 1986 – compact, powerful, and undeniably sporty. This model established the myth of the legendary M3. From the outset, the BMW M3 embodied pure driving pleasure on public roads yet achieved impressive successes in motorsport. It became one of the most influential vehicles in the history of BMW.
Which BMW is shown here?
BMW 5er Touring (since 1991–1996)
That’s right! Behind this silhouette is the very first BMW 5 Series Touring. In 1991, this model caused a sensation: for the first time, BMW presented an estate car in the upper middle class. It was the perfect time for a car that effortlessly combined sportiness, elegance, and versatility.
What is hidden behind this silhouette?
BMW 8 series (since 1989–1999)
Well spotted! The avant-garde elegance and sporty flair of this design (➜ Read also: Time travel with two generations of a BMW luxury icon) unmistakably mark it as the 850 CSi. A BMW far ahead of its time that continues to captivate with its timeless allure.
Do you recognise this BMW model?
BMW Z4 (since 2002–2008)
The captivating roadster design of the BMW Z4 is defined by its unique proportions: a long bonnet, custom cockpit, and striking short rear – a signature that has endured from its first model to today.
Can you identify this BMW model just from its silhouette?
Neue Klasse 1500 (1962–1964)
With the Neue Klasse (➜ Read also: The Neue Klasse: trailblazing a bright future) from 1962, BMW had once reinvented itself. It also marked the début of a design element that continues to define BMW today. Wilhelm Hofmeister and his team designed the characteristic transition of the C-pillar with a distinctive kink - for stability reasons and with a unique aesthetic effect. Known to car enthusiasts worldwide, this design feature is famously referred to as the Hofmeister kink.
Which BMW is shown here?
BMW Isetta (1955–1962)
A silhouette that takes you on a nostalgic journey back to the 1950s! Over the Brenner Pass, through the Alps, into the world of sun, pasta and dolce vita: the BMW Isetta embodies precisely this attitude to life to this day. The compact car from Munich combined a sophisticated concept with the charm of modesty and was built from 1955 to 1962. Today, the BMW Isetta is one of the most sought-after classic cars of its time (➜ Read also: A buyer’s guide to the perfect BMW Isetta).
What is hidden behind this silhouette?
BMW 507 (1956–1959)
Well recognised! This is a legendary BMW Roadster – even Elvis Presley owned one (➜ Read also: Elvis’ BMW – a legend revived): only 252 units of the BMW 507, designed by Albrecht Graf von Goertz, were produced. The first BMW with the distinctive, horizontally mounted double air intakes, and the characteristic, dynamically sloping front section known as the “Sharknose”. This iconic design feature is currently being revisited in a modern interpretation in the limited-edition BMW Skytop (➜ Read also: BMW Skytop – the magic of exclusive moments).
Do you recognise this BMW model?
BMW X2 (since 2023)
Spot on – this silhouette belongs to the new BMW X2 (➜ Read also: Rebelle Rally: an off-road adventure in the BMW X2). In its second model generation, the Sports Activity Coupé presents itself more independently than ever and features a striking silhouette. Its bold design is highlighted by a prominent kidney grille in a striking hexagonal shape.
Author: Markus Löblein; Art direction: Madita O’Sullivan, Verena Aichinger; Photos: BMW
