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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  Its all a Lie! - 2007 BMW 5-Series
  By A. Velasquez - November 6 - 4:30 am

  I will NEVER buy or lease a BMW, way overrated, and its a money pit!

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  Z4 rocks! - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Z4ever - November 6 - 2:00 am

  My experience to date has been nothing short of magical. This car demands attention even when sitting in a parking spot! My Z4 is Jet Black with the tan interior and conveys an image that equals BMWs "Land Shark" advertising. I dont think BMW will have to worry about the Z4 getting the woman’s car reputation like the Z3. As a 64" driver I am amazed at the head and leg room. It is a credit to BMWs adjustable seats. The 2.5 liter, 184 hp engine (coupled with the 5-speed manual transmission) is more than enough to put this car through its paces.

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  not a reliable vehicle - 2003 BMW X5
  By pcc - November 6 - 2:00 am

  A very disappointing vehicle. Our X5 is in the shop an average of every six weeks for various problems. It has been recalled several times. The interior door handle finish is peeling off on all four handles (supposedly, this is "normal" wear and tear - sure, if this were a ten year old car!). The steering wheel makes a horrible grinding noise in cold weather (three visits, not fixed - a piece fell out recently). The latest problem - the seal on the sunroof is starting to fail. This vehicle is not up to usual BMW standards. We are getting rid of it this week.

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  Simply Amazing - 1997 BMW M3
  By PerfectBMW - November 5 - 3:37 pm

  I bought my Estoril Blue M3 over one year ago, and havent looked back since. The performance (acceleration, braking, handling, etc) are self explanatory. It IS a perfect balance of weight, luxury, power, and suspension to create the most pleasurable driving experience. The only thing that can top it, is the E46 M3. For an enthusiast, an E36 M3 is a car that needs to be in your garage.

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  2005 BMW M3 w/Comp Package - 2006 BMW M3
  By Kruba - November 4 - 9:42 pm

  The handling of this car is unbelievable. The frame is extremely solid. Acceleration is very good. Suspension is excellent. Extremely pleasurable to drive. Interior layout and fit is perfect.

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  New improved 2007 X3 - 2007 BMW X3
  By Craig - November 4 - 12:22 pm

  I had seen the reviews etc on the 06 X3 and since then, the interior has been vastly improved. Super quiet. Driving is a dream. Quick acceleration, great gas mileage in these times of higher prices. I actually have more interior room than my 04 Durango. Great braking and 5 front airbags for safety. This car is a head turner. Take a ride in one. When you return you will buy it!!

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  BEST IN SHOW!! - 2006 BMW M3
  By djc - November 4 - 12:10 pm

  We are enjoying our new BMW M3 tremendously. My husband and I love to drive up to the north Ga. mountains and along country roads with the top down on warm days. I would definitely recomend this car to anyone/everyone looking for a fun, safe, sporty and suprisingly affordable car.

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  02 BMW M3 - 2002 BMW M3
  By mike - November 4 - 10:11 am

  Awesome car to drive... absolutely love it!!! The SMG gearbox is the way to go especially if you live where there is lots of traffic.

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  This is one great redo - 2006 BMW Z4
  By Michael - November 4 - 8:56 am

  I previously owned a 2003 Z4 3.0, and now have a 2006 Z4 3.0si. While I loved the first one, the new Z4 is spectacular. Press the sport button on the si, and it changes the manners completely. I always felt that I could have used a little more power- but not so much tha I have no choice of transmissions and pay a gas guzzling tax, like the M. This is that perfect car. Until the twin turbo from the new 335 makes it over!

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  The beast ride, great value for the money - 2009 BMW 6-Series
  By Mark Novakovsky - November 4 - 3:02 am