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The New Class models featured a fully independent suspension with MacPherson struts in front and front disc brakes.This was the model that took Bmw to a new level. Herbert Quandt gave Bmw the influx of money to continue production off the 700 Series, precussor to the Neue Klasse. 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 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.
1800 (4 door)The 1800 was the second member of the New Class family, introduced in 1963 with a 90 hp (66 kW) 1.8 L engine. An 1800TI ('touring international') model featured components developed for the 1800 by the tuning company Alpina. The upgrades included dual Solex PHH side-draft carburetors and higher-compression pistons for 110 hp (81 kW). A racing 1800TI/SA was introduced in 1964 with dual Weber DCOE-45 carburetors (along with various engine modifications) with 130 hp (96 kW). 200 examples of the TI/SA were built. An automatic transmission option was introduced in 1966 and in 1967 the 1800 was generally updated along with the 2000. The updates included interior changes (a modernized dashboard design and simpler door panels) as well as styling changes to the front grilles.
1600 (4 door)The 1600, introduced in 1964, used the pistons from the 1800 to enlarge the 1500's engine to 1.6 L (1573 cc) and 85 hp (63 kW). It replaced that smaller model in 1964 and was produced through 1968.
1600 (2 door)The 1600-2 or 1602 appeared in 1966 and was sold through 1975. Power output was up to 96 hp (71 kW) gross with 91 ft·lbf (123 N·m) of torque. Road & Track was impressed by the 1968 1602 coupe, calling it "a great automobile at the price", which was $2676.
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