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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  Lookn Good - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By Robbiee69 - July 12 - 10:00 am

  All I can say about my new Beemer is that, "I cant stop driving it." I love the looks the feel and the exhilaration of driving this machine. I would have liked to get the 530 for the extra pep, but opted for the options and really dont regret it. Not as much power but I can live with it. The ride is so smooth that, I often find myself at 80mph, thinking Im going around 65mph. Over all I like everything about the car.

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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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  Its an above average car - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By Timmy T - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I got the car with 95k miles. It now has 110k on it. I have replaced the 1 of the 2 fuel pumps, the lower ball joint on the passenger side, and a new front passenger door. I hopped a curb and hit a tree in the winter, the front wheel was barely pushed back, so now the car drifts to the right. The ABS still works! :). It needs brakes, which im neglecting to do, regardless this car stops and turns on a dime. The engine however makes a funny "buzzing" noise which i havent had looked at yet. The oil smells gasy as well.

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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!!

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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 m3 - 2004 BMW M3
  By maxinemegillah - July 10 - 2:00 am

  Nice car--I used to have the 4-door e- body--there are advantages to that for passengers. Nice ride & handling

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  Pauls Appraisal - 2004 BMW 7-Series
  By Paul Reed - July 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned 1998 and a 1999 740il, an x5 SUV, and this 745IL exceeds all in comfort, performance and luxury. It is a fine driving machine. The i-drive is a little difficult to get used to but it provides all data and settings required. If this were a hotel itd be rated 5 star..

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  The Ultimate Driving Machine...IReally! - 2004 BMW 7-Series
  By Lawyerman - July 10 - 2:00 am

  I extensively tested and researched the Mercedes S500, Audi A8, the Lexus LS430 and the BMW 745LI. This car clearly surpasses them all. Forget about what they say that the command control is confusing. Im no technophile, but I mastered it in less than 10 minutes. This car comes with dozensmore features than the Mercedes and is less money. The Lexus is nice, but it is not a beast on wheels like the BMW. I use to teach Police Officers High Speed Pursuit driving so I know performance when I drive it. This car is simply the best. It combines the best of everything, luxury and high performance into one cool package.

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  Not bad - could be better for the money - 2002 BMW 7-Series
  By yao - July 10 - 2:00 am

  Mechanics such as engine/trans response is great. The breaking is also great. The radio had be replace three times. he sound quality is not what I expected. The Lexus 450 which Ive heard and my S500 have a far superior system for the money. Frankly, the I drive is not good. Ease and function is poor. The tilt/telscoping wheel could come out further and down. Mercedes has a much more comfortable seat but the beamer is a rockect. Some of the interior features are "cheap" for the money. Much better in the cadillac, lexus and acura. BMW should take some hints from them. Overall interior look is very nice compared to other models in the same catagory.