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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  2007 BMW 335xi - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By tact5225 - September 14 - 5:10 am

  You buy, you pay, and you pay some more. But you have a blast while your doing it. Also make the right choice and get the manual.

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  Ultimate Driving Machine Requires Repair - 2000 BMW 5-Series
  By AD - September 13 - 6:27 pm

  Without question, the finest vehicle I have ever driven or owned in terms of the driving experience. On the other hand, without question the most expensive vehicle to keep in top running condition. I purchased the car with 82k miles where the car was a single owner with all maintenance up to date. In the 15k miles I owned it, I replaced a radiator, rear brakes, oxygen sensor, air mass flow meter, belts, radiator cap and rear ball joints. Also, had multiple issues passing state inspection due to Check Engine Light (where mechanic could not fix) In comparing other Bimmer owners, my experience is consistent... Ultimate Driving Machine that is Expensive to Own

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  except for lousy gas milage ,love it - 2005 BMW X5
  By jdo - September 9 - 7:16 pm

  My x5 3.0i automatic was purchased in March 2005 new. I now have 5800 miles on it and have had no problems what so ever. The SAV is alpine white, the paint and fit and finish is perfect. The interior is charcoal rugs and dash with dark popular wood trim. The seats are truffle brown. Plenty of leg, shoulder and headroom. Interior is ultra quite no wind noise or traffic can be heard IÂ’m not kidding this SAV is out side noise free at any speed. Performance is outstanding for a 225 horsepower straight 6. Had it up to 120 mph not to long ago and had no vibration what so ever, SAV was like floating on a cloud also had plenty of gas peddle left. Electronic climate control is beautiful, gas mileage stinks.

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  Now I understand ... - 1992 BMW 5-Series
  By sotampa - September 8 - 10:49 pm

  This car is not a speedster. Gearing is for practicality (wagon and touring version). This is a road car. A dream on the highway. Solid cornering. It is a GREAT car. Im up over 212,000 miles on this car and it is still GREAT! Sample problems have been: Door latch had to be replaced. Brake light module failed. Fuel pump replaced. Got to fo the a BMW pro on this car. Parts are always from the dealer. You can feel nickel and dimed (dollar and fived?). I have had several excellent up-end Japanese cars. The power is with the Japanese but the car itself along with the driveability goes to the BMW. I NEVER expected to get hooked. I am.

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  What 3 series is all about - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By pazman - September 7 - 6:49 pm

  Ive owned 2 E30 body style 3 series (early 90s), as well as a Z3. This 2004 325i gets me back to my roots and back to what i expect from a BMW - riding on rails, good acceleration, and feeling like I am in a solid car. Unfortunately, the car has become the symbol of the yuppie. If you are a true car afficionado - a true lover of what BMWs mean (and call them properly a bimmer and not a beemer - which is reserved for their bikes), than you wont be disappointed. I looked at Mercedes, and they are great cars, but if you are focused on performance, take a ride in this one and see how well it picks-up and goes and corners.

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  1999 BMW appraisal - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Glenda Bolin - August 31 - 7:31 pm

  I am in real estate and needed a car that was reliaable and comfortable, I got more, it looks good and is fun to drive with enough comfort and more get- up-and-go than anyone needs. It is silver in color. 4-door 528i leather seats that are heated, automatic seat adjustment and power moon roof.

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  Great Overall - 1999 BMW M3
  By Joe - August 30 - 2:51 pm

  I recently bought my M3 and havent had a chance to spend too much time with it but the time I have spent in it has been quite impressive. The handling is one of the most notable characteristics. It hugs the road with every turn. The engine is great... smooth, quiet, and delivers when you put the foot to the pedal. Low end torque is great.

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  Definitely the ultimate driving machine! - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Arlene - August 30 - 10:02 am

  Driving my BMW feels like a million dollars! Of course the top down on a beautiful day is beyond comparision. Drives like a dream. Service is top notch. They treat you like you should be treated. Id recommend one to everyone. I keep telling my friends if you want one get one! We deserve it. Got mine preowned (1 year, 9000 miles) and saved thousands. Its the way to go.

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  Not perfect, but so much fun - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By 340paul - August 25 - 10:00 am

  So far, this car has been so much fun to drive. I dont know how BMW does it, but their smallish 6 cyl feels big. It rides and drives wonderfully. As for complaints, it seems as if we all have the same problems. Ive had the driver side window regulator replaced twice, and all other windows once. Sunroof shade clip broke just like the others too. Brakes put out tremendous amounts of dust, and wore out at 30000 miles, but they work! Stereo speakers definitely not up to the standards of this car. Overall, I love this car, but Im not looking forward to my warranty running out. My next one will have a 5-spd and sport package.

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  2016 x6 - 2016 BMW X6
  By Shane Brown - August 24 - 9:59 pm

  Brakes make a lot of noise in cold, moist conditions. Very loud!