Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, or BMW (Bavarian Motor Works in English), is an automobile, engine, and motorcycle manufacturer based in Germany. Recognized for its luxurious performance vehicles, BMW began in 1916 and also owns the MINI and Rolls-Royce brands of vehicles. Originally the maker of aircraft engines, BMW turned to motorcycle manufacturing in 1923 and automobile production in the later 1920s. BMW's first vehicle, the Dixi, enjoyed tremendous popularity and helped BMW make it through the Depression. BMW also began establishing a reputation as a performance-vehicle company when its powerful Type 328 roadster earned over 120 victories in circuit motorsport racing between 1936 and 1940.