I think the Buddha taught mainly the way to Nibaana. But on the way we should learn to recognize [dukkha, anicca and anatta] and and become free from the grip of [lobha, dosa, and moha]. The concepts of 'mahaayaana' and 'hinaayaana' come much later to justify the schism (or the different interpretation) of the Buddha teaching.

One can say that the Buddha Himself went for salvation of 'self' and after discovered the way, thought of salvation of others (more universal beings - beyond just 'man' and family and country but also devas, bhutas, ... ).

Thanks for this thought provoking article.