The history of BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke) began with two separate companies started by Gustav Otto and Karl Rapp. One built aeroplanes and the other marine and aviation engines. The two companies remained separate but cooperative entities until 1922, when a Viennese banker by the name of Castiglioni bought them both. The new company’s first venture after the merger was the production of motorcycles. Although the mechanical layout - transverse twin cylinder engine with combined gearbox and shaft drive - was not original, it was unique for it to be incorporated into a motorcycle. BMW motorcycles still make use of this layout to this day. BMW moved into the production of four-wheeled vehicles in 1928 when the firm acquired the Dixi Company and its rights to produce the British Austin 7 under licence. BMW enjoyed its first competition successes with this model, winning the team prize in the 1929 Alpine Trial and a class win in the 1930 Monte Carlo Rally in 1930. Two years later, BMW had sold over 32,000 Dixi’s. In 1932 the company produced the first car of its own design - the 3/20PS, which was gradually developed into the innovative 328 sports model. This car was dominant in class in pre-War motor racing. Post-War production did not resume at the BMW Munich factory until 1952. The Eisenach plant (then in East Germany) was nationalised and continued to produce the pre-War 320/321 saloon and 326/327 designs - these cars being badged EMW, Eisenach Motoren Werke.