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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  Nice toy - 2006 BMW Z4
  By Alex Pitsas - October 29 - 4:13 pm

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  Fun 5 - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By skphphd - October 29 - 2:00 am

  Great looking; sassy; fun to drive; good interior space; handles extremely well. I have the sports package which has a nice stiff feel to it; like youre always in control.

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  qa problems - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By mpbmjr - October 29 - 2:00 am

  purchased and waited 2 months, the car was in for door and window problems 4 times within 2400 miles, bmw headquaters says that windows are adjusted in germany separetly, just an other way to say qa/qc is a problem previous owner of 5 and 7 series, the car is a gas to drive but seats not as good as on aforementioned net net, surprised at poor qa/qc and dealer, if this continues, the rep they had is going to nose dive

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  Delightful to drive - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Rick330 - October 29 - 2:00 am

  The BMW 330CiC is a wonderful car to drive and never fails to get looks from other drivers. It corners as if on rails but is very composed and comfortable for commutes. The Harmon Kardon sound system gives high-quality performances, even with the top down. A few minor issues with the car were corrected promptly by the dealership. I average 24 mpg in commute/city driving, which is better than I expected. I always look forward to driving it and cant help but smile as I do.

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  Thought it was hype til I owned one. - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By FleaMW - October 29 - 2:00 am

  Pure and simple, this car is a joy to drive day in and day out. The quality and reliability are on a much higher level from the other vehicles I have owned in the past. At 100,000 miles, everything is still tight and rattle free. I use snow tires on all four wheels during our Ohio winters and they provide excellent stability in the slick stuff. Dont drive like a maniac and consistantly get 27-31 MPG with 5 speed.

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  Buyers beware - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By garlic7 - October 28 - 10:00 am

  Before this car I would have bought BMWs for the remainder of my driving days. Now, I will not buy another one. True, it is fun to drive. Although sluggish on the uptake, the sport auto transmission makes up the difference. Mechanically this car is a nightmare. Mine is in the shop every 6 weeks and when I get it back I call the next week to set up another service appointment. For city dwellers with less than expressway quality roads, dont buy this car. You will be replacing wheels (rims) every year at a cost of $1200+ and tires every 15k miles. Keep your money and buy something more economical and reliable.

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  The new BMW 5 series - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Bryan B. - October 26 - 10:43 pm

  Great new design! parked next to a 2003 5 series yesterday, what a drastic change! The former looked dated and conservitive, mine, a modern refreshing design. Every mile in the car puts a smile on my face and makes each day that much more fun!

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  MY Z4 - 2004 BMW Z4
  By davidking - October 24 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE THIS CAR, SO MUCH FUN TO DRIVE!

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  Grows on you - 2004 BMW Z4
  By stoney - October 24 - 10:00 am

  Almost bought a Boxster but the spaciousness and quality of the interior of the BMW sold me. The Boxster Interior reminded of an old Toyota. I wasnt sure I would like the BMW exterior but have to say it has grown on me and I am happy with the choice. I was looking for a car I could drive long distances comfortably and the BMW fills that need and provides rocket ship performance and handling

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  No Regrets - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Rondell - October 24 - 10:00 am

  This is a terrific automobile. Looks, handling, comfort and its as solid as a rock. A lofty price tag, buts its worth it. I-Drive gives a man that total feeling of control, like that same feeling you get when you take possession of the TV remote. Mr. Long Giang at Vista Motors is great.