BMW was founded in 1916 in Munich, Germany as Bayerische Flugzeugwerke to produce aircraft engines. Maserati brothers were involved in automobiles in the early 20th century, building cars for Diatto and founding their own company in 1926. The Mini was produced from 1959 to 2000, known for its small size yet roomy interior, and became popular through its success in rally racing as the Mini Cooper S.