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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  Smile Machine! - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By cablover - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I am very impressed with the sound insulation in the car. A previous 911 cab owner and swearing I would never buy another convertible because of noise, this car converted me back. A daily driver (that now sits next to a 911 coupe) has similar handling and performance characteristics, simply without the hp. I offers huge fun factor - especially with the top down, but the wind deflector is a must for comfortable ride and therefore not that rear passenger friendly.

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  GREAT PURCHASE!!! - 2011 BMW 5-Series
  By Shannon G. - August 13 - 5:29 am

  Its flawless, you wouldnt be able to tell if the car was used, due to its perfect flawless condition both interior and exterior. No scratches. All conponents work. The only difference between this vehicle and a new one is looking at the odometer.

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  Definitely Worth It! - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Dreamstar - August 12 - 3:46 pm

  If youve got the bucks to spend, this one is worth it! The BMW 2005 330Cic Convertible is just about the most fun Ive had driving in a long time! Its packed with luxury Items and if you get the Sport Package like I did, you can take advantage of that extra "oomph" in pickup youll love once you break that baby in!

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  I love this car! - 2005 BMW X5
  By Laura - August 11 - 8:09 pm

  I saved for 2 years to buy this car and am so VERY happy I did. I love everything about it. I have the Xeon headlights, theyre one of the best features. It is fun to drive, feels safe and looks great!

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  99 BMW - Great Car In Indy - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By SEIndyBMW - August 11 - 5:30 pm

  I purchased my used 99 BMW 323i (32,000 miles)in Indianapolis, Indiana in the Spring of 2005. Very sharp looking car - titanium gray / black leather interior. Excellent handling and performance. This entry-level sports car hugs the road and drives fantastic. No major issues ...

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  2014 CPO Elite 328ix Sportwagon - 2014 BMW 3-Series
  By sco stu - August 11 - 1:33 am

  Engine and transmission are smooth as silk. The turbo-4cyl with 8AT is outstanding. 0 issues with vehicle and dealer has been outstanding for scheduled maintainence. I-Drive is waaaaay better than my wifes Audi MMI. Wagons new are $$$, look for a used CPO. Ridiculous what an optioned new wagon costs. Only complaint is, and this is an issues with pre-LCI F30s, is electric steering. Ugh, our old E90 was better in steering/road feel vs the newer F30s. Also if you can find one, get the Adaptive M suspension. The Xdrive wagon has BMWs base suspension and sits the highest. The Msport suspension or old "704" static suspension are unavailable on the wagons. And pay for the lighting package! The halogen lights are terrible. Unbelievable that BMW stills puts halogen lights in their vehicles. Plus with halogens you do NOT get the classic signature of all BMWs.....iconic Round Angel eyes. I have rear and front facing child seats in 2nd row. Make sure you put the front facing seat behind the drivers side! Or it gets tight. I love my wagon, fast and fun to drive.....and still average 24-25 mpg in town.

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  perfect combination - 2004 BMW X3
  By Pat - August 10 - 4:06 pm

  Ive owned Porsche, several SUVs,, Chevys, Jeep, Subaru. Looked at the Beamer cause I loved my BMW K100 motorcycle. Since it is a little pricey, (not overpriced) looked at company cars with less than 9k miles. Also drove Mercedes, Lexus, Audi Toyota etc. Wanted performance AND 4X versatility. Got both in spades. Handles better than some sports cars. Heated leather seats and all the bells and whistles you could hope for.

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  What is missing? - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Jimbo - August 9 - 9:22 pm

  Ive owned a number of sports cars including two Miatas and an RX-8. This is my first BMW since my 88 535is and it doesnt disappoint. Its performance is on par with more expensive cars, e.g., Boxster, but it is far less problematic and easier to live with in daily driving. It is comfortable, well-made, has a decent trunk and will run with like cars when asked to do so.

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  2003 X5 BMW - 2005 BMW X5
  By Donnie R. Johnson - August 9 - 12:47 pm

  I have truly enjoyed driving my X5. Even though it is almost three years old, I have such a good time I feel like it is brand new. I purchased the extended warranty and I have even more peace of mind driving it, knowng I dont have to consider costly repairs. This is my first BMW, however it will definitely not be my last! Driving this BMW is certaintly the ultimate driving experience. Job well done BMW of USA!

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  Amazing Eye Catcher - 2005 BMW Z4
  By BCorrupt - August 9 - 9:21 am

  Catches eyes at every stop light. Drives like a dream. Comfortable for shorter people, taller passengers may feel cramped. More trunk space than you would imagine for such a small car. Great car to drive on long trips.