Overview & Reviews

BMW is an acronym for Bayerische Motoren Werke AG -- or, in English, Bavarian Motor Works. Whatever you call it, the German-based company is one of the world's most respected automakers, renowned for crafting luxury cars and SUVs that offer superior levels of driving enjoyment.

Founded in Munich, the company began in the early 1910s as an aircraft manufacturer. BMW's current logo, designed to represent white propeller blades against a blue sky, reflects these origins; its blue-and-white color scheme also references Bavaria's blue-and-white checkered flag.

It wasn't until 1928 that production began on the first BMW automobile, the Dixi. The car proved tremendously popular, and its success helped the manufacturer weather the Depression. BMW's best-known pre-World War II vehicle was the Type 328 roadster, a supple two-seater that racked up more than 120 victories on the motorsport circuit between 1936 and 1940. Postwar BMW cars maintained this tradition, with several racing, rallying and hill climb victories.

The early 1950s saw the launch of the BMW 501, a roomy, voluptuous sedan that was resplendent with all of the hopefulness of that era. It was soon followed by the 502, which was powered by the world's first light-alloy V8, foreshadowing BMW's ongoing commitment to developing new technology. The best-selling BMW of that decade was the Isetta, a petite two-seat "microcar" typically powered by a 12- or 13-horsepower engine. The mid-'50s also saw the debut of the limited production and breathtakingly beautiful 507 sports car, which had an alloy body and used the 502's V8 for propulsion. In the 1960s, BMW sales strengthened significantly, thanks in part to the immense popularity of the 1500, a sporty family sedan.

By the 1970s, BMW was establishing itself as a full-fledged car company. It was a pioneer for many emerging technologies, including turbocharging and advanced vehicle electronics. BMW of North America was established at that time, and consumers who coveted both sports and luxury cars became loyal "Bimmer" owners. The '70s also saw the birth of BMW's three-tier sport sedan range consisting of the compact 3 Series, midsize 5 Series and large 7 Series cars and the creation of its performance M division. Though the 3 Series could be had with four-cylinder power, it was the company's inline-6 engines that developed BMW's reputation for spirited, yet highly refined performance. At decade's end, the limited production, short-lived M1 supercar debuted.

Throughout the 1980s, BMW became the unofficial poster car of yuppies, as the brand ostensibly signified one's financial success as well as a passion for driving. The elegant 6 Series coupe debuted, and the latter part of the decade saw the high-performance M division working its magic on various production models.

In the early 1990s, BMW replaced the 6 Series with the powerful (V12-powered at first) but heavy 8 Series grand touring coupe. A bit later, BMW introduced its popular Z3 roadster. The company also opened its first U.S. manufacturing plant in the latter half of the 1990s.

The 2000s brought a midsize SUV (the X5) as well as a compact SUV (the X3) as BMW joined the hot-selling segment. Since then, BMW has replaced the Z3 with the Z4, introduced the compact 1 Series, produced hybrid versions of a few models and debuted the X6 fastback crossover. The company has also expanded its empire to include Mini and Rolls-Royce and continues to build motorcycles, something it has done since the 1920s.

BMW's famous advertising slogan describes each of its vehicles as "the ultimate driving machine," and it's not mere hyperbole. Over the past couple of decades, BMWs have become the standard for performance and luxury in most of the "over $30,000" segments. With family-friendly wagons, crisp sedans, distinctive coupes, nimble sports cars and spacious SUVs offered, BMW's model roster is diverse. But its vehicles all share a common characteristic: the ability to make drivers feel gloriously connected to the road.

User Reviews:

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  I like it - 2000 BMW M5
  By dr ken - May 13 - 2:00 am

  An excellent engineering masterpiece of machinery and design. It is one of my most favorite automobiles..great job

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  BMW Big back seat - 2000 BMW 7-Series
  By BillT - May 13 - 2:00 am

  This is a great vehicle! The interior room is almost as big as a limo. The ride is fantastic and the power is awesome. This is a true sports car that seats 5 adults comfortably. Im going to buy mine after leasing it for the past 36 months.

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  TBD - 2002 BMW X5
  By blkbutterfly - May 12 - 2:00 am

  Just purchased a 3.0 for the spouse. Will be testing it on the Bahn. More to follow. I am however concerned about the lack of A/C power. Ive test driven this car (German spec) on numerous occasions and didnt see a problem.

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  325ci review - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By kishino - May 10 - 3:33 pm

  Bought the car in dec. 2001, great car. Love the smoothness of the inline 6. power is not as abundant as in the 330ci, however I chose to rather have all the goodies and load the 325ci.

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  Hail to the KING! - 2002 BMW M3
  By IceManJ - May 10 - 2:00 am

  Took out a S2000, WRX, Supra Turbo, C32, Camaros, Mustangs, and much more. Its a beast. Youll love it!

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  LOVE THIS CAR - 2016 BMW 3-Series
  By Sauda B - May 9 - 2:31 pm

  Spacious but nicely fits into parking spaces. The car drives beautifully and is so good with steering. You can feel the power and accelerate, but its not loud or noisy. Couldnt be happier.

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  Not your usual boring wagon! - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By jvinca - May 8 - 2:06 pm

  After seven years driving my reliable but plodding Volvo 940, my new 525iT is a luxurious breath of fresh air! It may look like your tame suburban station wagon, but it drives like a spirited sports car. The optional leather seats and interior are luxurious and the premium sound system superb. I keep finding excuses to go driving!

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  My 2004 525i - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By DHCorvette1970 - May 8 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is all I expected in a car and more. The handling and comfort and the ride is exceptional. The style and design of The BMW 5-series has delivered many a "WOWs & WHOOS" to my family and friends. My BMW is primarly used to commute to work in the morning, commuting has never been so pleasureble. One thing I would request in a BMW is better cup holders. I need to put my Starbucks coffee some where.

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  Dream Car! - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By rogreal - May 8 - 2:00 am

  Far & away the best car Ive ever owned.This car is not a Lexus. You feel every curve, the engine is inspiring and the reliability is unmatched.

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  Finally A Car To Match My Personality! - 1998 BMW 7-Series
  By D-Pak - May 8 - 2:00 am

  This car is the finest machine I have ever driven, and believe me I have driven a lot. The power and handling are excellent, and that is what makes the car fun to drive. In short, it is the perfect blend of performance, luxury, and elegance.