BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 model

On October 1, 1928, BMW acquired the Fahrzeugfabrik Eisenach automotive manufacturing plant along with the Dixi brand. Initially, production continued under license of the Austin Seven small car, branded as the Dixi 3/15 PS DA 1. In July 1929, this model became the first car to bear the BMW emblem, renamed the BMW 3/15 PS DA 2. Key improvements included a four-wheel braking system, upgraded wind-up windows, and adjustable seats for added comfort. Additionally, a small luggage compartment was incorporated at the rear. Alongside the all-steel sedan, BMW initially offered a touring car and an open two-seater version of this model, with more body styles introduced in 1930/1931.

BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Sedan
Production Period: March 1929 – November 1930

The BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Sedan was marketed as the ideal all-around car for budget-conscious customers. Its all-steel body provided everything necessary for a family car, including protection against inclement weather, space for three adults or two adults with children, and wide doors with easy-to-operate wind-down windows for smooth entry and exit. The sedan also featured comfortable seats and a fully-equipped interior with fabric upholstery.

For added comfort and ambiance, the vehicle included curtains for the rear and side windows, along with ceiling lighting that gave the cabin a homely atmosphere. A small trunk was also provided behind the seats, offering additional storage space. BMW’s advertising slogan, "Bigger on the inside than the outside" ("Innen größer als außen"), perfectly captured the spacious and practical nature of the sedan.

Model Overview
BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Sedan

BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Phaeton (Touring Car)
Production Period: March 1929 – January 1931

The BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Phaeton was a touring car version of the sedan, offered at the same affordable starting price as the two-seater variant. The Phaeton, which was beautifully named, featured a wood-and-steel body, covered in leather, and had an extended rear body to accommodate an additional adult or two to three children, making it a perfect option for family journeys.

Due to its compact size and favorable price, the Phaeton became an attractive choice for families, especially with its low maintenance costs. In terms of weather protection, the car featured removable Cellon side windows and a plastic all-weather canopy roof, though it lacked space for luggage. Despite this, the Phaeton still provided a functional and economical solution for families in need of an affordable touring car.

Model Overview
BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Tourer

BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Express Delivery Van
Production Period: May 1929 – February 1932

During a time when tradesmen primarily relied on bicycles, carts, or motorized three-wheelers for deliveries, the BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 express delivery van marked a significant leap forward in transportation. It was designed to meet the growing need for a fast and affordable delivery vehicle, allowing businesses to improve their customer service by providing quicker delivery times.

The van featured ample cargo space with a spacious baggage compartment, and larger items could be secured to the roof rails for additional storage. With a payload capacity of 265 kg, it was surprisingly capable for such a small vehicle. The van was also customizable for branding purposes, allowing businesses to display their name and graphics on the bodywork.

One notable user of this delivery van was the German postal service (Reichspost), which operated a fleet of these small yet efficient vans to handle deliveries. The BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Express Delivery Van was a key innovation in the small delivery vehicle segment, offering businesses a practical and economical solution for logistics.

Model Overview
BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Express Delivery Van

BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Convertible 3-Seater
Production Period: May 1929 – December 1930

The BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Convertible 3-Seater was marketed with a specific focus on women drivers, with advertising campaigns highlighting its elegant design and appeal. The design of the car mirrored the open-top four-seater (Phaeton), but with a more compact, stylish twist. This model featured an all-steel body, equipped with high-framed doors and wind-up windows, ensuring both functionality and comfort.

The soft top of the convertible was made from corduroy fabric, featuring a lightweight lining that provided both durability and style. The side storm bars that spanned across the soft top added a sophisticated touch, giving the car a classy, refined look. However, when the roof was closed, passengers sitting in the rear seats faced a minor drawback: the design obstructed their view out of the side windows.

Despite these minor limitations, the BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Convertible 3-Seater offered a comprehensive set of features, making it the most expensive model in the series at the time. Its unique blend of luxury, style, and performance made it an attractive option for those seeking a more upscale vehicle.

Model Overview
BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Convertible 3-Seater

BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Open-Top Two-Seater
Production Period: May 1929 – March 1932

The BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Open-Top Two-Seater was designed as an affordable entry-level model aimed at cost-conscious drivers who valued reliability over luxury. While its equipment was basic, it provided an excellent balance between practicality and performance for the gentleman driver.

The bodywork of the two-seater was a combination of wood and steel, covered with leather, offering a durable and stylish exterior. The interior was compact, designed for two passengers with minimal luggage space. It featured an all-weather soft top made from plastic material to shield passengers from the elements, while four side windows, made of Cellon with faux-leather surrounds, could be inserted into the doors for added protection.

Due to its light weight, the BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 was highly manoeuvrable, making it well-suited for driving in various conditions. The car’s agility was proven during the 1929 Alpine race, where it secured an overall victory, further cementing its reputation as a reliable and efficient vehicle for those seeking practicality at an affordable price.

Model Overview
BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Sports Two-Seater

BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Sunroof Sedan
Production Period: December 1929 – May 1930

For customers who enjoyed the open air but still sought the protection of a sedan, BMW introduced a unique variation of the 3/15 PS DA 2 Sedan: the Sunroof Sedan. This special model featured a sunroof that provided a hybrid driving experience, combining the comfort of a sedan with the joy of an open-top vehicle.

The Sunroof Sedan featured a roof with a middle section made of coated plastic, which was replaced with a rubberized roof material that could be rolled up from front to back. This innovative design allowed the roof to be retracted and fastened above the rear window using straps, providing passengers with an opportunity to enjoy an unrestricted view of the sky while still maintaining the protective qualities of a closed vehicle.

The Sunroof Sedan catered to those who wanted to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine without compromising on the comfort and protection typically offered by a sedan. This model offered a balanced solution for those who sought both the luxury of a sedan and the freedom of an open-top car.

Model Overview
BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Sunroof Sedan

BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Convertible 2-seater
Production Period: July 1930 – December 1930

The BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Convertible 2-seater was a stylish and sporty model designed for both ladies and gentlemen drivers who appreciated elegance and performance. This car mirrored the sleek design of the 2-seater version while incorporating an all-steel body, offering a sturdy and refined structure. High-framed doors and wind-up windows provided practicality, and the roof came with a protective cover for added convenience.

A notable feature of this model was the easy-to-operate convertible roof. The side windows were fixed in place, and the roof could be opened or closed quickly in just a few simple steps, offering a seamless transition between a closed cabin and an open-air driving experience. The interior was upholstered in high-quality faux leather that matched the car's exterior paintwork, adding to its overall aesthetic appeal.

Practicality was also considered, as the trunk, located behind the backrest, offered ample storage space for larger items, making it suitable for both leisure and everyday use.

Model Overview
BMW 3/15 PS DA 2 Convertible 2-seater