Eras
Six decades of European automotive heritage
1960s
Post-war innovation. Audi saved itself with the 100, and BMW laid foundations with early sedan platforms that would define the company for decades.
1970s
The original era. BMW launched the 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, and 7 Series in a single decade — establishing every nameplate that endures today.
1980s
Turbo power and technology. Audi's Quattro revolutionized all-wheel drive while BMW introduced its first V12 and the E30 M3 dominated touring car racing.
1990s
Design icons. The BMW Z8 channeled the 507, the Audi TT brought Bauhaus to the road, and the E39 5 Series set the executive sedan benchmark.
2000s
The SUV revolution. BMW launched the X range, Audi debuted the R8 supercar, and both brands expanded into segments no one thought premium brands would enter.
2010s
Electric futures and digital cockpits. BMW's i3 and i8 previewed electrification while Audi's Virtual Cockpit replaced analog instruments forever.