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 car ever. - 1991 BMW 8-Series
  By cre8tive_00 - November 30 - 2:00 am

  I was impressed with its clean lines, low profile and aggresive, yet understated stance. The car holds you firmly and all controls are so ergonomically at hand. With the V12 engine underneath power is there whenever you need it. By no means is it a muscle car with unreserved torque off the line. But a a more solid car hasnt been built - or in the case of the 850, overbuilt, because that it is... everything on the car is higher grade & quality than it needs to be, and namy of the systems come in duplicate. In summary, the very best car Ive ever owned and one of the most underrated BMW ever.

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  I LOVE MY CAR - 1994 BMW 5-Series
  By BMWfan2216 - November 29 - 2:00 am

  Got this car for my 16th birthday and have been driving it ever since the day I got it! I had to get used to the stick~stalled out a few times, but my car is SO forgiving! No problems so far, and I dont think I will have any in the future. I highly recommend any kind of BMW, since I have been in every single model.

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  My M3 is Awesome! - 2002 BMW M3
  By Rob in Great Neck NY - November 29 - 2:00 am

  This car is extremely quick, fast, smooth, and luxurious. I love the SMG2 paddle shifters. Driving this car is like being on vacation. I love driving it every day to work (except when its snowing) and on long trips on the highway. I can cruise smoothly, or I can zip past and around anyone whenever the need arises. AWESOME!

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  The ultimate drive to work or anywhere. - 2004 BMW M3
  By JayE - November 29 - 2:00 am

  From the moment you first start the engine to the instant you park your car, you experience pure enjoyment. Performance is excellent and comfort is acceptable despite a firm ride. You are able to experience true race car performance without sacrificing luxury. The only problem I face everytime I drive this car is staying within the legal speed limit.

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  Pure Roadster Experience - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Chris02 - November 29 - 2:00 am

  A great car to drive and to maintain. Every feature is of high quality and reliable. The design is classic and will be as sought after twenty years from now just as the 50s Mercedes SL 190 is today. The SMG (semi-manual gearbox) adds substantially to the driving experience. The car is far superior to the Audi TT (the slowest roadster ever) and the SLK. Comparable are the Boxster S and the AMG SLK, but both are quite a bit more expensive. Thus BMW gives you the by far best deal for your money. As an advice, do not save on the extras and get as many as you can. You will appreciate it later and every time ou get into your roadster.

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  Best SUV yet - 2000 BMW X5
  By dpospres - November 29 - 2:00 am

  This is the best SUV I have owned yet. A few minor issues, but considering how much is packed into this vehicle, I have no complaints. Extended warranty is probably a great investment. And of course....lets not forget the tax benefits.

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  Too good to be true? - 2001 BMW 7-Series
  By the doc - November 29 - 2:00 am

  This machine is truly beautiful(sports package 2001 740il-black on black). Had it in the shop quite a bit for how much paid for. Warranty covered everything. Fun to drive and everyone looks at it. In the snow not so good.

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  WOW - 2003 BMW M3
  By Pablo Ortega - November 28 - 2:00 am

  What a car? handling, speed, looks and much much more. Its a dream come true

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  Immediate Gratification - 2003 BMW Z4
  By HawaiianZ - November 28 - 2:00 am

  Traded up from a Mazda RX8. What a noticable difference in performance and handling. SMG performance is outstanding as is the acceleration in all gears. Auto top is quick and effortless. Gas mileage is averaging 27- 28 mpg! Fit and finish immaculate with no noted faults or defects. Wife loves driving it and likes the electronic seat adjustments and looks of car. Immediate gratification for the senses!

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  THIS CAR ROCKS !!! - 1996 BMW 3-Series
  By Lipe717 - November 28 - 2:00 am

  This car is awesome, I love everything about it!!!