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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  I Couldnt Agree More... - 2002 BMW M5
  By Paul-MD - November 1 - 2:00 am

  Next best previously owned car was a 91- 300Z Turbo great car, but no comparison to the M5. The M5 Driving Experience in SC really helped to learn about controlling THE BEAST. Perfect choice for the family, 4-doors, luxury, safety, luggage (split-folddown seats) and daily drive. Better choice for me when I have a need for speed!!

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  Bought another X5 - 2004 BMW X5
  By Piper - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Already own a 2001 X5 and it has been a great car. Doesnt do well with original all season tires in ice and snow, but once you put good snow/ice tires on it, its a tank, and a confortable one at that. Like it so much I just bought another one for the Mrs. We replaced an X type Jag because of its poor performance in bad winter weather

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  ultimate driving - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Luiz - October 31 - 10:00 am

  The car is fantastic.

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  Hmmm. a car without coolant tempera gage - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Andrew122 - October 31 - 10:00 am

  I tested GS300, C320 & 530i in one day and I ended up with a 530i. Its fun to drive this car. Very spacious. i- Drive doesnt turn out to be such a nuisance. Sound is not as good as the 325i I used to own. They want you to pay top $ now for the upgraded sound system. Didnt see weather band radio as described in the manual.

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  Ultimite Fun To Drive Again - 2003 BMW Z4
  By R. Brodst & G.Davis - October 29 - 2:00 am

  I remember when I was a teenager waiting to drive for the first time. This is how I feel again driving this car! I dont mind traffic, long red lights and I just want to keep driving and driving!!! Thank you BMW!!!!

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  Da Bomb - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By odyboy - October 29 - 2:00 am

  I have a 1996 750il (12 cylinder w. 77,000 miles) as well as the new 745il (8 cylinder). The two cars are totally different in ride and performance. The 750il is fast and is like riding in your living room couch. The 745li has an entirely different suspension and is a much sportier ride.

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  Great Car - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By drral - October 28 - 10:20 pm

  Traded in a C320, not even a comparison, great handling, better gas mileage, fun for short drives and comfortable on longer commutes over 40 miles a couple days a week, premium packege with bluetooth and leather is a must. The factory 10 speaker stereo is excellent, love the subs under the seats.

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  Ultimate driving machine - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By ochie629 - October 28 - 2:23 pm

  I have been very impressed so far after taking delivery of my new 328xi. The tight cornering, quick acceleration, and solid feel are the best selling points. BMW USA and my local dealer have treated me like royalty! The exterior styling is not over-the-top, but elegant and bordering on conservative. The performance and power are exceptional. The advanced technology is not overwhelming - it just works. I am very happy.

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  BEST CAR EVER - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Moe Rizek - October 28 - 12:06 pm

  Ive had this car for about 4 months now, i already have 12000 miles, FUN to drive, AMAAAZING speed, real time information is great. The cup holder is the only annoying thing, otherwise its the perfect car.

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  Great Car - 1997 BMW 5-Series
  By Excell - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car used in 1/2000 with 44,000 miles. Now have 119,000 and it has been a great car and given great service. I have never driven a car that is more fun to drive.