India, Jan. 26 -- The story of Rolls-Royce's transition from Vickers to BMW and Volkswagen is one of high-stakes negotiation, strategic foresight, and a lesson in the importance of brand over assets. In 1998, Vickers, which had owned both Rolls-Royce Motors and Bentley, decided to sell its automotive operations. This decision sparked a bidding war between BMW and Volkswagen, two of Germany's automotive giants, both eager to acquire one of the world's most prestigious luxury car brands.

The Initial Bidding War BMW had long-standing ties with both Rolls-Royce and Bentley, supplying engines and various components. They were considered the most likely buyer, given their established technical and business relationship with the brands. By the ...