




The most successful model in the range was the M3 Coupe with 10,571 units followed by the M3 Sedan (3 ,253 units), M3 Convertible (4,169 units), M5 Sedan and Touring (2,465 units), M6 Convertible (1,158 units), M6 Coupe (1,102 units), Z4 M Coupe (739 units) and Z4 M Roadster (699 units).
Once again, the United States was the M division's most prominent market with 10,663 vehicles sold in 2008. In Germany, BMW recorded sales of 2,777 "M" vehicles which represents a 37 percent increase over 2007. By far the strongest growth was reported in Canada, where sales increased by almost 130 percent to 1,114 vehicles.
Via: Autogespot
"The fact that our dealers were able to supply significantly more vehicles than the average of the last nine months even in such dramatic times for the world economy demonstrates the fascination and attraction which BMW M automobiles exercise on our customers," said Ludwig Willisch, President of BMW M GmbH.
A major contribution to BMW M's runaway success in 2008 has been the introduction of the all-new M3 which is now offered in three body variations (Coupe, Sedan and Convertible). The high-performance sports car sold almost twice as well in its first year of production than its predecessor model did within the same period.
Currently, BMW M offers seven models that include three body types of the M3, the BMW M5 Sedan and Touring as well as the M6 Coupe and M6 Convertible.
Overall, BMW brand sales in 2008 for the first 11 months of the year, are down 3.5% compare to the same period in 2007 to 1,105,112 units.
Sir Jack issued an official statement on his website stating that "No connection exists between the Brabham family and products being marketed at the European auto show". According to a report from the Associated Press, Jack Brabham and his family are considering to take legal action against Brabham Racing. Even though we're no lawyers, judging from the German-based firm's press release (see after the jump) which makes a direct connection to Brabham's racing team, we'd say that Sir Jack and his family have a mighty strong case...
Photos Via: Autoblog.nl
Official Statement From the Brabham Family About Products at the 2008 Essen Motor Show
- Sir Jack Brabham and his Son David Brabham have issued the following statement:
The Brabham family would like to absolutely and categorically state that the range of cars and accessories being publicised under the Brabham name at the Essen Motor Show 2008 and on global websites, has nothing to do with the Brabham family, or its long and respected motor racing heritage, in any way.
It is clear to us, as it must be to the whole world, what these people are trying to do. In our opinion, it is a clear case of using our name, our history and our success, without the backing of the Brabham family.
The 50th anniversary of Jack Brabham's first Formula One Championship crown is approaching in 2009.
In light of this announcement and the celebrations planned, we would respectfully request that in publishing press material from Veritas-Brabham, BMW Brabham or Brabham Racing, you understand that the Brabham family have no involvement nor endorse the products and services offered by the aforementioned companies and that no relationship should be implied in any story published.
BRABHAM RACING PRESS RELEASE
Return of a Legend: Brabham Racing at the Essen Motor Show 2008
One of the most illustrious names of automotive history has returned. After numerous successes in Formula One and being dormant for nearly sixteen years, the legendary motor racing brand was relaunched.
Despite its long absence, the renowned company still has to meet high expectations. Its vehicles are designed according to highest quality standards and manufactured by using state-of-the-art technology. Consequently, development programmes designed for the automotive industry and Formula One manufacturing techniques are employed as well. '
By using wireframe models, maximum precision is guaranteed already during the construction process. The engines' increased performance forced the constructors to develop technically independent high-performance braking systems. In addition to this, all carbon-fibre body parts used for the production of Brabham racing cars are cured in autoclaves - these quality characteristics are visible at the first and even at the second glance one gets of each new Brabham model.
At the relaunch on the Essen Motor Show 2008, Brabham Racing will already present three models: the BRABHAM BT 92 based on the BMW M3, the BRABHAM BT 60 based on the BMW M5 as well as the BT 70 - a sporty interpretation of the SUV X6. Each of these models embodies the company's message: high-tech, quality, sportiness, design, exclusiveness and history.