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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  HELL OFA GOOD CAR!!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By ART VANDALAY - November 21 - 10:00 am

  NO BETTER CAR FOR THE MONEY ON THIS EARTH. THE BEST THING ABOUT IS THE EMBLEM ON THE FRONT,BACK AND WHEELS!!!!! ART V.

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  At its finest. - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By sean kim - November 20 - 6:33 pm

  You would think of BMW as a luxury vehicle. It is, but add "sporty" with it, you got yourself a BMW. This vehicle is truly amazing. Packs fun, comfort, sporty, yet luxury. What more can you ask for in a car? I still question tail-light design of this E90, but beautiful front facia and side look makes all that worries go away. I am very happy with the purchase. I have sport pkg, and it handles like its glued to the road. Interior is functional and stylish, sport pkg seats are supportive yet comfortable for long drives. Being spoiled by BMW vehicle, I dont think I can ever go back to honda/toyota. Oh, and run-flat tires which eliminated spare tire was a good idea. Keeps trunk roomy and clean.

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  Initial impressions. - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Huncowboy - November 20 - 12:00 pm

  These are just initial impressions after only 600 miles. I cant comment on reliability. I replaced a 03 330Ci for a 06 330i and I also drive a 04 Audi A4 1.8T. All of these cars with sport package. I am both a BMW and Audi fan btw. This 3er is by far the best handling car out of the three. I did not imagine that the new 3er would outperform my old Ci because that vehicle was already excellent. This car is ridiculous in cornering and has 30 horses more. I dont think I will ever be able to push it its limit. The car simply beats the the current A4 as well. In short if you are in for a car in this segment do yourself a favor and at least test drive one with a sport package.

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  BMW the cost of Luxury and repairs - 1999 BMW 3-Series
  By Jimbo1999 - November 20 - 2:00 am

  The car now has 98K miles. I had a few problems with the car since Ive owned it. My Air bag light came on around 80K miles. Diagnosis is a faulty Air bag computer, cost is $500. North American BMW will not assist in any way since warranty is not valid. Sunroof acts up by not closing as it should. I have found that this car needs alot of pampering to make it run problematic free. I have a toyota and no problems. Not sure if I would recommend one. Ill probably buy a Porsche or Mercedes next time.

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  So much fun! - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Joel - November 19 - 8:25 pm

  Does not handle bumps or dips well at all, nor dirt or puddles, but what do you expect from a sports car? It is so much fun to drive--the top comes down automatically, the steering is excellent, the acceleration is amazing, the look is great, the sound system is phenomenal

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  The Ultimate Driving Machine - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Limomin - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I originally wanted to get Nissan 350Z, but Im glad i ended up with Z4. My first experience with BMW was more than pleasant. It handles very well, no wonder why people prefer the ultimate driving machine. My Z4 has Sports Package, that gives you very good handling. Do not underestimate the 2.5 liter engine, it will give you enough power. Without realizing, you are already going over 100mph

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  my toy - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By arzurita - November 19 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car Ive ever own. I cant wait for the weekend to get out on the road. It is a pleasure to drive. Iam 61 yrs. old and computers are not my specialty, but I have no problem using the IDrive. I dont know what all the fuss is about. I highly recomend this car.

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  A good 4WD and fun to drive - 2003 BMW X5
  By crsrehab - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I enjoy driving my X5 because of its overall good performance and handling capacities. However, the negatives are: noisy interiorly the engine is very thirsty limited luggage area and poor design of the cup holders.

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  The Z8 is Not Enough - 2003 BMW Z8
  By automobileman - November 18 - 2:00 am

  This car is awesome. It is truly a drivable work of art with performance that is almost scary. The Z8 is the best looking car on the road today and at 0-60 in about 4.5 seconds, a car that will blow away nearly everyone else off the road. And while this car is a dream to drive, it is not perfect. The radio/navigation system is too complex. There is a lot of plastic on and in the car (but it looks great). Sure, the speedo and tach are at the center of the dash....and it takes a little getting used to. But once you do, this quirk only adds to its uniqueness.

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  1995 M3 review - 1995 BMW M3
  By CharlieB133 - November 18 - 2:00 am

  Fun car to drive. If kept in good condition you cant tell how old it is. Very reliable.