BSA (United Kingdom) - AllCarIndex

Birmingham Small Arms Company (B.S.A.) was established in 1861, originally focusing on the production of firearms. The company was formed in Birmingham, England, and its origins can be traced back to a Royal contract secured by Sir Richard Newdegate, which mandated local gunsmiths to produce muskets. By the late 19th century, B.S.A. expanded its operations to include bicycles, beginning in 1880, and later ventured into motorcycle manufacturing in 1910.

B.S.A.'s foray into automobile production began in 1900 when it manufactured components for other car manufacturers. The company officially entered the car market in 1907, producing its first model, a 4-cylinder vehicle designed by Colonel F.E. Baguley. This model was followed by several others, including a smaller 14/18hp version and a larger 25/33hp model. In 1910, B.S.A. acquired Daimler, which led to the development of a new model featuring a Knight sleeve-valve engine.

After World War I, B.S.A. produced a range of cars, including a light car powered by a 1075cc V-twin engine and several models based on Daimler designs. However, production of these vehicles ceased in 1926. In 1929, B.S.A. returned to car manufacturing with a 3-wheeler designed by E.W. Hulse, which utilized a V-twin engine and was notable for its front-wheel drive.

Throughout the 1930s, B.S.A. continued to innovate, introducing the Scout, a 4-wheeler that featured various body styles and engine upgrades. The company also produced a separate range of cars, including the 10hp and Light Six models, which were essentially badge-engineered versions of Lanchester vehicles. However, B.S.A. ceased car production after World War II, although it briefly developed a prototype 3-wheeler in 1960.

In the following decades, B.S.A. focused primarily on motorcycles, acquiring several well-known brands and continuing production until 1973. The company's assets were acquired by the Norton-Villiers Group in 1973, and the B.S.A. name was revived in 1980 for a new line of light motorcycles.