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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  Superb auto - 2004 BMW Z4
  By loonnoon - July 14 - 2:00 am

  Without the most smooth running vehicle I have ever owned. The service and attention to my personal needs was excellent and continues to be.

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  Its Fun to Drive Again - 2004 BMW X5
  By bump - July 14 - 2:00 am

  After having my 04 for a month now, I have put 2500 miles on it. I cant stop driving it. Its the most fun I have had driving in a long time. You cant find a better handeling or more powerful truck built like a BMW anywhere. The new V8 and 6 speed tranny made a world of difference. The new V8 has a subtle but distinct roar coming through the exhaust.

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  Great - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By J. Wilcenski - July 13 - 8:26 pm

  The car is great. It is a go getter and has plenty of pep. The body, interior and all the bells are another good feature of this car. I would have liked the tires to be of the old school.

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  Great Car - 2004 BMW X5
  By Admir - July 13 - 2:00 am

  Great car, everything is fantastic.

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  Ultimate Driving Machine - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By sebis - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Great car, I love it. I would not imagine myself at this age (31) driving another car, except maybe for an M3. Youll have to own one to really understand. No problems what so ever, I put 18,000 miles in 10 months.

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  A SUPERIOR CAR - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By SAMMYD - July 12 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has surpassed my expectations. The ride and handling are excellent. I expected the AWD system to be a drag on the acceleration but I have been pleasantly suprised by the responsiveness of this XI model. To summarize, this is a great car. If only BMW would provide a a stereo system worthy of the overall performace of this remarkable vehicle.

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  x5 is great - 2004 BMW X5
  By ckmm7 - July 12 - 2:00 am

  Tremendous front legroom and confort. Great accleration. Nice layout. Unbelievable sunroof. Not enough storage space in cabin, no place to put sun glasses.

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  Incredible - 2001 BMW M3
  By docherf - July 12 - 2:00 am

  This is all it is said to be by the car mags and more. Its a blast to drive - its fun even on short drives to work. The space is practicle for kids in the back - and they love to be in it with the top down. Quality is first rate - Im surprised that even after three years, there are no rattles or squeaks - it is as tightly put together as the first day. There are not any drawbacks as far as Im concerned - except I wish BMW made something the size of a Suburban for the family car.

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  The ultimate Driving Machine - 2004 BMW X5
  By Ralphf - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Great Car, hugs the road like no other SUV

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  My Bimmy !! - 1998 BMW 5-Series
  By Sultanbond - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought my used 528I with 68616 miles and its just been a fun experience. I think the exterior design really attracted me to buying the car. The interior is in great shape with really good quality leather. Nevertheless, I think that for a luxury car of this price, the cupholders must go!! The stereo is just ok. Overall, this car is excellent!! It takes the same amount of money to buy a new domestic car or a used 3-5 year old BMW with low miles. My choice... Buy the Bimmer!!