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:

• 

  car of my dreams - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By nmm - July 1 - 10:00 am

  This car far exceeds my wildest dreams. The ride is so smooth, and there is so much power that I have a hard time even staying close to the speed limit... I would recommend this car to anyone who is looking for an ultimate driving experience!

• 

  BUY IT !! - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Maryellen - July 1 - 3:36 am

  I just recently bought a 330i 2006 BMW. I previously had a 228i. This car is awesome. It is sleek, fun, fast, and has all the luxury that BMW promises. You cant go wrong with this one!

• 

  318i Solid transportation - 1994 BMW 3-Series
  By J.H. - July 1 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my 1994 BMW 318i used with 135,000 miles on it. It is a solid car with the basic amenities and teutonic interior styling. The quality of the car is excellent and it is still tight as new. The gas mileage is great and it is virtually maintenance free. Only Problem Ive had is the idle valve was faulty, but was easily replaced by the dealer for $400.00. The engine has no leaks and engine runs smooth and the car handles great. I have learned over the years parts are not as pricey as you would think compared to regular cars. Insurance is reasonable as well. I totally recommend a 3 series to anyone looking for a pre- owned Bimmer that is budget priced.

• 

  Perfect Fun to Drive Car - 1997 BMW M3
  By Aaaaaron090 - July 1 - 2:00 am

  Very fun car, very well built

• 

  Smooth as silk, though expensive to keep - 1992 BMW 5-Series
  By Cruiser-Joel - July 1 - 2:00 am

  Got this car in 1997 from a guy who babied it. Had 68k miles and was perfect and maintained on schedule. This car rides so nice, I hate to part with it. I have 138K miles on it and it still drives like new. Down side is it is so fricking expensive to maintain. I only have it serviced by BMW. However, it will do 200K easily and I intend to keep it for at least another 2 years. Some rust on the doors but nothing serious. I have spent at least $10,000 on repairs over 5 years. But, it was worth it.

• 

  Zooooooom - 2001 BMW Z3
  By mikevanh - July 1 - 2:00 am

  Car is REALLY fun to drive! Handling is outstanding and with the 3.0 engine and sports package you go out of your way to find roads with hilly curves. Ive been surprised at how comfortable the over-the-road ride is. Downside is its terrible in snow...Eskimos look for an SUV.

• 

  This car made me a wagon lover - 1995 BMW 5-Series
  By lsbarkley - June 30 - 2:00 am

  This is my fourth BMW. By far the most practical and useful. Solid yet nimble and smooth. Leather is very thick...mine looks new at 9 years old. Have 145000 with no issues to report. So easy to load/unload the rear with either big rear hatch or just the glass hatch. Roomy with all the fun stuff...even the dual sunroofs are unusual. BMWs to me combine everything you need in a car.

• 

  my 740i - 1998 BMW 7-Series
  By rickter - June 29 - 2:00 am

  It is an awesome vehicle, but it costs to keep them going. I had the same problem with the "check taillight" alert. It is due to water getting in the rear light assembly. Costs about $300 to get both fixed. This car really scoots and is very fast and fun to drive. Its worth the $

• 

  NICE!!! - 1997 BMW 7-Series
  By wvangosen - June 28 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! When I purchased it though, it had some problems and slightly abused. Digital displays not functioning properly, radio buttons broken, no floor mats, paint splatter on the side, etc... However, the ride and performance of this car have more than made up for these minor glites (not to mention the great price I got on it). Center console should have a hidden compartment for the phone and be covered with the same soft leather that the seats are covered in.

• 

  I expected more - 1997 BMW 5-Series
  By California Driver - June 28 - 2:00 am

  My previous car was a 87 BMW 325. Got 257,000 miles with no major repairs - wonderful car. I have 150,000 on this car - just replaced the drive-shaft, control arm is going and some bushings as well. The transmission (auto) has slipped twice and my mechanic tells me it will need to be replaced soon. Thats about $7000 total. I expected much better reliability, especially compared to my previous car.