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:

• 

  Awesome 328 - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By lynchlab - March 14 - 6:26 am

  I have had this car for a few months now. We have a lot of fun with this BMW. I love the way it handles and has plenty of power at the upper rpm range, stops on a dime and corners like a dream. Like all BMWs the turning radius allows easier parking. I love the added shoulder room and the roomier back seat. Sport package lowers the car and has bigger tires so you feel the road real well and adds confidence at higher speeds. It has a large enough trunk for most. Very impressed with this model.

• 

  love it - 1998 BMW 3-Series
  By michaelgdwn - March 14 - 2:00 am

  drives great and its very fun

• 

  Who wouldnt like one?? - 1996 BMW 3-Series
  By 328is Lover! - March 14 - 2:00 am

  I just love this car! I got an extremely good deal on a 64,000 mile car! The engine is GREAT, the 5-Speed manual is really smooth! and the performance is not expected. This car easily takes on v8 cars such as 98 Mustang GTs and older GTs. The only problem you have with it is people that hate you for owning such a car... Someone shot my window... but if you do it yourself its very inexpensive, and if you have a Cousin working at the Dealer its even better.

• 

  My Blue BMW - Just Awesome!!! - 2001 BMW X5
  By gregdeir - March 13 - 2:00 am

  This SAV is truly a truck wrapped in luxurious clothing. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this vehicle. It has lots of power, a nice stereo system, and quality construction. Would recommend for those who desire to be among the best on the road in any type of weather.

• 

  Best Car I Ever Had - 2000 BMW M5
  By Myron Draper - March 12 - 2:00 am

  The 2000 BMW M5 is the ultimate driving machine. Its by far the best car I ever owned. The classic beauty and drive are unparallelled.

• 

  2008 528i - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Ronald Bussey - March 11 - 2:48 pm

  Well maintained outstanding vehicle

• 

  RRZ3 - 2002 BMW Z3
  By Richmmm - March 11 - 2:00 am

  Ive loaded mine up with the Dinan upgrades and it runs like a dream

• 

  2006 325i SP Manual - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By nkeen - March 10 - 8:20 pm

  I purchased my first BMW as the replacement for an unsatisfactory 2004 Acura TL. I am very pleased with the car overall, especially its performance, handling and character. Its a pleasure to get into the car and drive it in the morning. On balance, given the deplorable state of southeastern PA interstates, it was probably better that I bought a 325i with 17" wheels than the 330i with the more vulnerable 18 inchers. Power is, as they say, sufficient, and with ZSP gives a factory stated top end of 149 anyway (were I ever to explore such limits!). Runflat EL42 tires on base may be a problem, but RE050A runflats on ZSP are fine.

• 

  A Classic! - 1990 BMW 3-Series
  By clouseau - March 9 - 2:00 am

  This is my second E30. Very reliable if you keep up on suggested routine maintenance. Yes, they arent perfect but their character will win you over. Very respectable performance and impressive craftmenship. These cars are built to last. You wont be sorry. BMW has impeccable standards and it shows.

• 

  Sensible Indulgence - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Ed - March 8 - 8:00 am

  It has been a year now since purchasing my E90 and I must say this car has been a real pleasure to own. The car has impressive power and excellent style. There were so many enhancements over the 2005 model that it seemed like a model upgrade at no extra charge (e.g. Â’05 stereo upgrade now standard, more powerful engine, hands-free Bluetooth, run flat tires, etcÂ…). I strongly feel your decision to purchase the new 3 Series will be one you wont regret.