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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  Fun but expensive - 2000 BMW 5-Series
  By ServicePatrol - March 23 - 5:05 pm

  Owned the 528 with M sport package, The sport package is a must if you really wanted to experience true BMW performance. Definitely consider snow tires if you live in wintery climate. This car is great HOWEVER I hope you make good money because you will need it... an oil change alone is $135.00. All I can say is it doesnt get serviced that often but when it does be prepared to shell out the cash. You are better off to have your "out of warranty" Beemer service at a reputable european car service center. back to performance it is 2nd to none.

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  VERY FUN TO DRIVE - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By charles20 - March 23 - 2:00 am

  this car is so smoooth and fast. I am often driving at 90mph on the freeway without knowing. it is amazing. best feeling to drive. BMW is definately the ultimate driving machine

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  BMWs finest vehicle! - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By TexasDriver - March 22 - 9:42 pm

  Not only the best looking BMW, all the legendary handling and driving dynamics are there. The interior has adequate room for four although the rear seating can be somewhat lacking for large adults. Wonderful safety features such as door anchors and BMW assist give you a break on insurance rates. This car feels absolutely rock solid! No creaking sounds, no rattles, as if its made of a single piece of metal. Its cute on the outside and plush on the inside. Get the premium package... worth it with beautiful leather/electric seats, cool compass mirror, and bluetooth. This car may outsell the 3-series someday!

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  Considerations when choosing - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Oscarcat - March 22 - 11:55 am

  The 530i is the most balanced of the 5 series meaning good performance & the ability to get good fuel economy. Sports suspension is a case where less is more. These cars already handle well, sports suspension makes the ride stiff. Bolsters on the sports seats makes entry and exit more difficult. (Sports suspension is distinguished by the black trim above the windows, 7 spoke wheels and contoured frt seat bolsters.) Early pdn 06 530s had traditional key start later models had push button start/stop. IDrive: basic music and HVAC functions can be handled by dash controls complex functions by iDrive. IDrive may not be good for occasional drivers who could be distracted by it. Fun car!

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  Unequaled Luxury Rocket - 2000 BMW M5
  By Bob - March 21 - 11:38 pm

  I sold my E36 M3 after I bought this car. I loved the M3, but hauling a teenage daughter and her friends around, I needed a 4-door. This car not only is much faster than the M3 was, but actually handles better as well, in spite of the extra weight! Incredibly neutral and smooth. Just aim and turn, no fuss, no drama. The acceleration is not to be believed! Fantastic! The car is already a classic and Ive been followed to my destination and complimented/quizzed several times by those in the know. I was lucky to find a one-owner with just under 31K on the clock. But then, Id been looking for 6 months. Youd think it was right off the showroom floor by its condition. Absolutely love it!

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  I LOVE MY Z4 - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Robert Dugan - March 21 - 4:07 pm

  This car hugs the road so nicely it just give me goose bumps when I drive it. My mother thinks the car is the coolest and loves driving in it with the top down.

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  530i - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By runna252 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  The car! Drove High perfomance police vehicles, Acuras etc, nothing on the road compares to the the 5 ( my 2nd one)

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  What a Fun Ride! - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By M.J. Smith - March 21 - 8:51 am

  I was looking for a car that was fun to drive and the 135 fits the bill. The six-speed manual is a welcome change of pace from the ordinary and makes the twin-turbo a pocket-rocket. The sports suspension is firm but still very comfortable and the handling is superb. Im 64" and there is plenty of room for me to change gears and maneuver. The profile of the car is spectacular and has already gotten a number of positive comments. If you are looking to get into a Bimmer that is all about fun, this is the car for you.

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  WonderCar - 2002 BMW Z8
  By SM - March 20 - 8:42 pm

  Ive owned over 50 cars in my life, including some top flight iron. None has ever been the true combination of quality, style, power and fun-to-drive that the Z8 has been. I remember why I bought the car every time I take it out. Absolutely wonderful ride! I get thumbs up, stares and comments whenever I take her out. Great fit and finish, no mechanical problems and my BMW techs have been wonderful to deal with. The best service anywhere! Gas mileage is OK, essentially 20mpg on the highway and mid-teens around town. I really love this car, but know someday Ill get the bug for something else and then may have to sell/trade the car. They are becoming harder and harder to find.

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  Be smart, avoid the dealer. - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By NeverGoingAmerican - March 20 - 12:51 pm

  Ive had this car for 5 years and if I can have things my way, Ill never buy anything BUT a BMW. Its a joy to drive, styling is sporty without being gaudy, and after a car wash, I could swear I was looking at a brand new Beemer. Maintenance costs are high after the warranty has run out. Be smart, and DONT go to the dealer to fix every little thing. I recently had my brakes repaired (new rotors, pads and sensors) for $700, the dealer wanted $1900. Do yourself a favor and hunt around your city to find a reliable BMW certified mechanic. If you do this, long maintenance will be much more managable.