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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  Get this one if you are looking for a safe car. - 2002 BMW 3-Series
  By agoudy - September 30 - 10:12 pm

  This was my first car, purchased it used, and I had it for exactly one month. The car itself overpowered my abilities as a new driver, and I would suggest that only experienced drivers use this car! The brakes were spongy, despite being new performance brakes. I had to really slam on them in order to get the car to stop. The car has a nice, comfortable interior and the controls are a little counter intuitive at first (being a German car) but you will adjust quickly. Also, the leather interior will split at the seams if not taken care of. Overall a nice car for someone who appreciates good handling and a balanced, powerful car. ***I was in a 40 mph head on collision in this car. I ran it directly into a tree. I totaled the car, but came out of the accident unscathed. I had some minor burns on my arms from the air bag, and a mild concussion, but I was otherwise kept safe. The air bags deployed properly, and the car crumpled as it should have. The passenger cab of the vehicle was kept in tact and I had no issues getting out of the car. If safety is a priority for you, I can tell you from first hand experience that this car will keep you safe.***

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  The Best - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By WJB - September 30 - 10:00 am

  It may be the final generation of cars that really looks like a BMW. Drives and handles beautifully. 530 probably a better choice for extra power, but the 525 really doesnt feel anemic on the highway. Gorgeous interior, high grade materials, quiet and comfortable. Im sure the future generations of BMW will be impressive, butIm glad I grabbed one of the last of this breed.

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  Pure Purrr Fun - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By BMW GOZ - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Replaced a 1998 323ic convertible and just as excited as the first time. The fun factor of driving these cars just never goes away. Just be careful, you may be flipping a coin with your wife for the drivers seat!

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  2003 BMW 325i - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By dtim - September 30 - 10:00 am

  The features of this car far exceed the class. Besides the obvious cold weather features and premium package, the car has features such as noise if coming close on parking, tire sensors, etc Luxurious car. It feels larger inside when riding. Would recommend this car to anyone.

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  Absolutely Perfect - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Abvincent1 - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 03 330 conv after I had numerous fallouts with my 2002 VW Jetta Turbo (engine coil issues). I must say test driving the BMW pulls you in right away--I was hooked immediately. I initially looked at the 325, which I thought was excellent, but something about the 330s motor made me quickly change my mind. This car is truly a gift from God, and I must add it is great at turning heads also. Dont test drive one unless you can afford it because you will be sucked in immediately!

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  #1 Car Ever - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By poiuerwerw3e - September 30 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car car ever created. It is powerful, fun to drive, comfortable, quiet, and has and does everything you would want from a car.

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  A Very Fun Roadster... - 2003 BMW Z4
  By spzero0 - September 30 - 2:00 am

  SMG Transmission is very fun. Acceleration assistant allows you to launch at a redlight with perfection everytime.

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  Z-4 SENT FROM HEAVEN - 2003 BMW Z4
  By t.c - September 30 - 2:00 am

  AFTER DOING SOME EXTENSIVE RESEARCH ON THE AVAILABLE ROADSTERS, I NARROWED MY SEARCH THIS PAST SUMMER AND SELECTED THE 2003 Z-4. THE CAR IS NOTHING LESS THAN A REAL JOY TO DRIVE. THE 2.5 WITH MALDIVE EXTERIOR AND BEIGE TOP/INTERIOR DRAWS LOOKS FROM EVERYONE WHEN I AM ON THE ROAD. OPTIONS THAT I PUT ON MINE INCLUDED THE PREMIUM AND CONVENIENCE PACKAGES ALONG WITH AUTOMATIC TRANS. THE MOTOR HAS A DISTINCT GROWL THAT IS UNIQUE. KIND OF LIKE WHAT A HARLEY OWNER FEELS WHEN HE/SHE IS ON THEIR HARLEY. TO SAY IT THE BEST, THERE IS NOTHING NOT TO LIKE ABOUT THIS CAR. IN MY 25+ YEARS OF DRIVING, IT IS WITHOUT A DOUBT THE MOST ENJOYABLE DRIVE I HAVE EXPERIENCED.

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  Beta machine - Not ready for prime time - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By h9 - September 29 - 2:00 am

  BMW is now in the software business. The iDrive is not ready for consumer use. Constant problems. Have had car in monthly for bug fixes. They are not being truthful to the buyer.

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  TheBestCar - 2003 BMW Z8
  By evielovesZ8 - September 29 - 2:00 am

  Just got the Z8 roadster 3 weeks ago, & simply love it! It can be driven like a pussycat (with an older passenger), or like a lion (when Im alone)!