Forty years ago, in May of 1972, BMW introduced a new sub-division for its racing activities named BMW Motorsport GmbH.

After the success of cars like the 3.0 CSL Coupé on the racetrack, the sub-brand that eventually became known simply as BMW M, introduced its first production model, the limited run M1 in 1978.

The more mainstream M535i sports saloon followed next year, with the M635CSi Coupe joining the ranks in 1983 before the company presented the car it is mostly defined with in modern times, the M3 based on the E30 3-Series in 1986.

In this latest video, BMW gives us a quick history lesson on the formation of the M division and how its racing heritage has inspired the sub-brand’s modern lineup that includes cars like the M3, M5 and M6.

Follow the break to check it out.

VIDEO