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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  So far so good - 1997 BMW 5-Series
  By gbucey - October 27 - 2:00 am

  I bought the car a little over six months ago with almost 107,000 on it and it now has 113,500 miles. The car is fun to drive, very reliable and very comfortable. A lot of power for a six cylinder and very smooth ride. Ive had no problems with it whatsoever thus far.

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  One of the Best - 1995 BMW 3-Series
  By mdc973 - October 26 - 1:00 am

  They dont make them like this any more. Still has that all important feel of the road missing from newer models. Not super powerful off the line but still plenty of power to drive safely in virtually all circumstances. At higher speeds can compete with just about anything on the road. Not one of the best body styles. BMW owner for >25 years.

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  Handling - 2003 BMW X5
  By Sammorbs - October 26 - 1:00 am

  I enjoy the way it handles when driving. I was able to take the driving course at the manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, SC. What a great experience! I learned how to handle the car in many different situations. Off the road and On. Although I probably will never go off road with my car, that experience was a good taste of what I could expect and a good lesson on how to handle the various controls on my car.

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  i love this car - 2003 BMW X5
  By Dr Tony Kahmann - October 26 - 1:00 am

  handles like a sport car. safest car on the road, in my opinion. absolutely no wind noise,no feeling of speed even if you are driving 90 plus.design of body gives almost perfect protection from car doors of other vehs. huge brakes that stop you virtually on the proverbial dime. I had three 928 porsches before this car and i would never go back. you look down and can really see all the other cars etc.

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  excellent - 2004 BMW M3
  By jeffrewy - October 25 - 2:00 am

  the car is awesome it drives great and is very very fast it handles great and i have never had problems withit

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  Fantastic drive - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Farbton - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Awesome car. Power is insane. There is no logical reason for having this much power other than it is a total blast to drive. Handling in turns is equally impressive. Active steering is very intuitive. No lean at all in hard turns

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  2004 530i - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By gonzo40 - October 25 - 2:00 am

  have logged about 350 miles on it already, fun to drive, quick and agile, had a 02 330i before, opted for the new 5 for more room. styling is great, the lines, raptors eyes, etc., i never get tired looking at it. I- drive is easy to configure - no problems there! handling is superb! got the Premium, Cold Weather and Sport Packages, Xenon and Steptronic - wondering if other options are worth it, PDC, Premium Sound, Rear Seat Heating, etc.

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  03 BMW - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By jeff epperson - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Second BMW, its all it claims to be.

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  great sports sedan - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By x021627 - October 25 - 2:00 am

  previously owned acura tl and moved up to 530i. excellent handling, standard stereo and excellent materials and workmanship. i just love to drive this car!

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  Excellent - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By jiggly - October 25 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is the best ive ever owned! Its my first BMW and i must say that im extremely impressed. The ride is exemplary, the engine quiet and smooth and the performance very good. I have recommended this car to many of my friends who are looking for a new car. They have all been just as in awe as i was and still am. You wont be dissapointed i you choose this car!