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 6 Series - 2004 BMW 6-Series
  By Andy25pitt25panthers - June 22 - 2:00 am

  This car is just off the wall it is a great and i mean great car. Its safe, fun to drive, everywhere i drive it heads are always turning and looking to see what kind of car that is. It is super fast! I love the interior its very slick and just echoes the word "PIMP".

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  MMM - 2004 BMW M3
  By Stavri - June 22 - 2:00 am

  outstanding car. Porsche like performance for alot less money.

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  I hate this car - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By K Harney - June 22 - 2:00 am

  There is always something wrong with this car. The top quit working, the trunk lid wont catch properly, the all-window switch broke, the auto door locks stick, the brake rotors are wear items(!!), the covering has worn off the center console, the glove box wont open. I will admit it drives great, but I cannot accept the constant stream of annoyances. BMW customer care couldnt care less. Ill NEVER own another BMW.

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  2001 740iL - 2001 BMW 7-Series
  By fpfarr - June 21 - 2:00 am

  The car is docile and surprisingly sporty for a large sedan (mine has the sports package). You have to look behind you to remind you of the amount of metal thats following you. The car does everything for you. The interior is well crafted, extremely roomy. It is likely the safest car on the road. Acceleration is impressive. The best car Ive ever owned by a long shot.

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  1998 Z3 2.8 Roadster - 1998 BMW Z3
  By fpfarr - June 21 - 2:00 am

  Best car I ever owned (until I bought my 2001 740iL). Still turns heads today even though its seven years old. If you have the 17 in. wheels, avoid driving in winter --traction is nil. The 17 in. wheels differentiate the car from others. Engine, drivetrain, fit and finish have been outstanding. Poor air conditioner and stereo --those are the most disappointing features. The absolute exhilarating driving experience makes any flaws minor in comparison. I am extrememly happy with my decision and would buy this car again.

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  Outstanding car - 2018 BMW 5-Series
  By Gen - June 20 - 10:15 am

  Performance, engine, handling, comfort, luxury...all in one car

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  Amazing Car - 2004 BMW X5
  By Zooter - June 20 - 2:00 am

  My mom just bought one of these beasts and then broke her leg so ive been driving it. Let me tell you.. this car is amazing and is the ultimate driving machine. It handles like a sportscar and has enough power to destroy anyone at a stoplight. Even with the 20 rims, the ride is very nice. All the gizmos and gadgets just add to this spectacular car. The GPS is top of the line and works like a charm. Complete genius in the creating of the machine. Much props to the people at BMW for this SAV.

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  Another BMW M-3 Review - 2016 BMW M3
  By Chunman - June 19 - 10:56 am

  Test drive this car before you decide to purchase one, and remember the feelings that you get while experiencing a well thought out vehicle. Because you probably will not have the same sensation from another automobile. The handling,responsiveness, and comfort is very hard to compare with other cars in its class.

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  Dream Car - 2004 BMW M3
  By ragman22 - June 18 - 2:00 am

  I previously owned a Mustang COBRA, and cant believe how superior this car performs. This is even more amazing given the 23 MPG that Ive experienced The fit and finish is excellent. I know Ive been hit by other car doors in crowded lots, but you cant tell. Its hard to stop to fill the tank without getting compliments. Great car.

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  Refined Excellence - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By d.j. - June 18 - 2:00 am

  I bought the 2003 530i auto with comfort seats, heated steering wheel, xenon, and DSP stereo option. I commute 100 miles to work each day and the heated comfort seats and steering wheel keep my aching, middle-class, white collar bones feeling great. The Digital Sound Processing option for the stereo is nothing more than glorified reverb and definitely not worth the money. Performance, engineering, design, fit and finish are truly wonderful. In the last year of production, there does not appear to be a single bug in the car. This car is a keeper.