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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  The Best!! - 2002 BMW 7-Series
  By HDBear - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Ive had a ton of 7s as well as M-B and Lexus, and nothing compares to this car. By far, the best riding, performing car I have ever driven. My 2000 740 IL was a truck compared to this car. Was very apprehensive about getting this car due to the mixed reviews. Granted, its not the most beautiful car on the road, but after driving it for several weeks, I could care less. Anyone who complains about the I-Drive apparently has never used ANY electronic device, let alone a computer. Someone complained about setting the radio. Hello!! It was easy. Everything about it is very intuitive.

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  540i StationWeapon - 2000 BMW 5-Series
  By StationWeapon - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Jast as fast as my brother 96 911, with seating for 5, cup holders (okay they suck), and room for the kids. Just the best car Ive ever had. Mileage is similar to SUV but driving everyday brings much more joy. Xenon lights are incredible, engine is smooth and powerful. The only downside is you need to put your golf bags in diagonally.

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  Best Car yet - 2002 BMW 7-Series
  By Paul D. Hanson - July 14 - 2:00 am

  I have had no problems with my car and going from a 740iL to to 745LI was no problem and I enjoy all of the new toy to play with including the knob, I just havent figured out how to to the voice comands yet but I dont need to. except for the telephone?

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  Not second guessing - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Quie - July 13 - 9:56 am

  I purchased my 06 325i with Automatic, Premium package and gray leather interior in November of 05. I got the sparking graphite and it is a beauty. I am very impressed with the torque and performance of the engine. Whats really amazing is the gas mileage. I am averaging almost 25 city and 34 mpg highway. The 34 mph is at speeds of 70 to 75 mph and occasoinal 80 mph. If you are considering the 3 series, make sure you give the automatic some consideration. This transmission is more consistent than the manual. When in sports mode (If you know how to drive it) it will blow the doors off the manual. Handling is superb and the ride is excellent for a vehicle this size.

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  The Car you Love - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Emmanuil Kaidanov - July 13 - 8:30 am

  Small scratch on the rear bumper.

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  A drivers small sport ute! - 2005 BMW X3
  By Kevin - July 13 - 4:40 am

  We just recently had a baby and had grown out of our 330i. After looking at the crossover market and driving a few (Infiniti FX, Lexus RX, etc.) the Beemer won hands down on driveability and function. The SUV drives just like our previous 3 series, but has some decent cargo space and all wheel. We have a larger SUV family truckster and vowed to never drive a mini-van. So now we have the best of both worlds with the X3. A little pricey, but worth it if you want nimble utility.

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  Excellent Car - Bullet-proof - 1994 BMW 5-Series
  By Ruze - July 13 - 2:00 am

  This car has been very reliable for many, many years. I am right now in the market for a 540i because Id like something more powerful. But it has been more than adequate for commuting and can handle high speeds with ease. It is also as comfortable and feels like a new car inside (no sagging seats at all).

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  3 years and going - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By Gordy - July 13 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive. Long drive feel like they take half the time. Very reliable, very durable. Gives a drive a lot of confidence. Dealership service has been good too.

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  BMW 325i - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Gary Ross - July 12 - 10:00 am

  This is my first BMW and I have to admit I a sold! Best drive of all the cars I have had or been in. I travel a lot and rent many cars. I have also tried to keep US automakers in mind when purchasing but BMW wins hands down. This is a solid car with great all around appeal. It is also rated safer than the volvo on independent crash test. Finally the service is outstanding and hastle free. I recommend the 3 series to someone who wants quality and performance. It is a great car!!!

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  A Great Vehicle - 1998 BMW 5-Series
  By Spudcake - July 12 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is in the process of being passed down from my parents to me. I only have a permit, but have driven the car and have been living with it for about 4 years. Its so much fun. I think the exterior styling and interior comfort and luxury combined with the performance of its engine make it the best beginners car I could have ever hoped for. We have only had one maintanence problem with the vehicle but it was kind of a Doozy. But otherwise, a near PERFECT car.