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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  Amazing All-Around - 2006 BMW X3
  By X3 from PA - May 11 - 6:20 pm

  I had planned for months to get the new 330xi, but when I walked into the dealship and saw a Black Sapphire BMW X3, fully loaded, and with Terracotta seats, I didnt have to think twice about which car to purchase. Overall, the X3 is the best of both worlds. Smaller than the X5 and more versatile than a 3 series. The drive is amazing, it feels almost like a car. Obviously there is more body roll than a 3 series, but far less than an X5. In short, it gets me and all my friends and things to wherever I need to go...fast.

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  BMW M6 - 2006 BMW M6
  By JASOM - May 11 - 3:00 pm

  This car is amazing, with 507 horses this car can run. i got from 0-60 in 4.0 sec! which isnt bad, compared to its weight. It was pricey, but it was worth it.

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  Once in a Lifetime - 1995 BMW 8-Series
  By Fastest M8 - May 11 - 1:38 pm

  The pinnacle of BMW design and engineering is captured in this "no expense spared to develop" ultimate BMW supercoupe. An absolute dream to drive, you are the master of the universe on the highway with monstrous amounts of torque available at any speed or in any gear to propel you past virtually any plebian motorcar you may encounter along the way. The design of the 850CSi stills turns heads 15 years following its introduction, and the car is swiftly becoming a collectible with a sizeable cult following. BMW simply never built one better than the 850CSi - its the total package of exclusivity, luxury and performance.

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  Worth every penny! - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By 4 Murphs - May 10 - 10:16 am

  Im a BMW fan, just sold my 2002 325i sport/premium. 530i is an excellent value/jump up. With updated engine (255hp), this is a fun ride. Either love or hate the exterior, interior is well designed. IDrive was no issue for me, if you can navigate an internet web site, you can use IDrive...I highly recommend the Nav system, especially for safety (not having to look around while driving, it tells you when and where to turn). Trunk space is a big step up from 3-series...premium package a must (nice leather). Decided against sport package, since I live in N. PA...snow and ice is not recommended for sport package. Loads of technology in 06 model...enjoy the toys. Love the way it handles.

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  CAs X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By caskeez - May 10 - 8:51 am

  This car is our daily driver. Its a pleasure to drive and ride in, very quiet, smooth riding, plenty of power, outstanding brakes. The handling is superb, for a "sport ute." I really like the styling both inside and outside. It is a perfect size for our needs. I ski 40 days a year and participate in recreation that requires significant gear another 100 days a year. I think 3 people with gear is the limit for this car. Next ski season, Ill have a roof rack for skis as I dont like skis inside the car. 3 pair is the limit for the "interior ski bag." The car pulls our folding trailer, 1,800 lbs, plus camping gear comfortably. Mileage drops to 18.6 from around 21 when towing the trailer.

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  328i convertible 07 - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By phil le - May 10 - 6:03 am

  I own a BMW 328 convertible 07, in 2 months it been sent to dealer 3 times. First problem was brake warning, second times it has same problem.Third time,both rear power windows broken,have to order parts,and then shift warning problem,parts ordered is in back order.This car is just a piece of junks,it is a waste of money and time.Not only that,it is frustrated too.I feel nervous every time hearing alarm warning sound.My car still sitting at dealer now waiting for parts.I will get rid of this BMW car as soon as possible and never BMW again

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  My red Z4 - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Joe Wilson - May 9 - 10:10 pm

  The car is my daily driver. I love the ease of the manual roof. Opens and closes in one quick motion, can close it at 40 mph (do this when it rains). Smooth engine and excellent 5 speed is addictive. Good torque. Unbelievable handling. Good ride. Phenomenal standard stereo. Get heated seats (my only option). Had a few problems but BMW fixed them. A hoot to drive with the stability control off. Winter traction excellent if you buy winter tires (mine are Hankook), but snow and ice traction is terrible on stock tires. Recently drove new S2000 and Solstice both very nice. I like the feel of the BMW. Nothing compares. Buy the standard transmission and engine is my advice.

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  BMW 530IA Sport Package - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By Todd Baker - May 9 - 10:07 pm

  The BMW 530IA is one of the best cars on the road. It is extremely reliable as far as making sure you get to and from your appointment. Many times, even the car is having issues.. the parts are so tough that they will even get you to the dealership in a reasonable amount of time w/o a tow. Of course.. there have been no major failures thus far. The car handles like a race car.. but you can put your parents in the back seat for those trips to and from the airport. Lots of space where it is needed.. but gives most Corvettes a real run for the money off the line and at high end speeds. The car is at home around 90mph on the freeway. You hardly notice when you pass 120. NICE CAR.

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  Fun to Drive - 2003 BMW X5
  By Frosty05 - May 9 - 10:00 am

  I have a 2001 4.4 and have thoroughly enjoyed this car but have had reliability and feature problems (mis- marketing of towing feature, horrific cup holders...). The acceleration, braking and overall handling are similar to a sports car. I describe the vehicle as an SUV sports car. I tried out many SUVs and none compared in handling and power to the X5. We are sadly selling the X5 (see below). We bought an H2.

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  Investing in the past pays in the Future - 1993 BMW 5-Series
  By Stacy - May 8 - 7:55 pm

  I purchased a 1993 BMW 525i when it had over 121,000 miles on it. I did not blink when this great automobile came my way. I paid under market value for the car and it was in excellent condition. I have not had any problems with this thirteen year old beauty. It drives smooth and incredibly quiet. The style is a little dated, but the interior features are not. This old car is still quite a luxury. Anyone thinking about owning an older BMW should not think too hard, because my car is proof that reliable engineering will last over 200,000 miles. This 13 year old BMW is the first one that I have owned and I now claim to be an exclusive BMW owner.