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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  Still a Winner - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Bob L - November 5 - 2:00 am

  My 2003 525 was totaled when a pickup broadsided my family at 55 mph. They came out without a scratch! It wasnt love at first sight with the 2004, but I trusted no other car for my familys safety. I got it with the actice steering and suspension and it is truly outstanding. It out performs my 2003 and the new technology is a nice touch. The adaptive xenon headlights turn the corner before you do, adding a little extra safty. I like the i- drive, its simple and helpful. The car looks like its moving even sitting in my driveway. A little costly, but how do you put a price on your family. Dont have one... get one! I love this car.

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  Fun Fun Fun But Nickle and Dimed - 1997 BMW 5-Series
  By FGORILLA - November 5 - 2:00 am

  Unbelievable performance, but there have been quite a few minor ($$$) electrical issues (i.e. rear window wont retract, warning lights stay on, etc).

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  No comparison - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By doug900 - November 5 - 2:00 am

  Great car, fun to drive, love the hidden top when its down. Many people have told be to tell them if I sell.

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  Overpriced and unreliable - 2000 BMW 3-Series
  By bueller72 - November 5 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car brand new in 2000 and can honestly say that this has been the most expensive and poorly designed vehicle Ive ever owned. Ive had the following issues: suspension issues (control arms - 2 times!), HVAC, ignition switch, windown regulators, power steering pump, radio, horns, speakers go bad and require replacement. Latest issues: camshaft sensor, amplifier, and another power window regulator. Stay away from BMW. BMW North America doesnt care about their customers either. After warranty expires, DUMP THIS CAR.

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  Wow! - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Frank B - November 4 - 3:26 pm

  I love this car. Wonderful handling with an excellent ride. Power is more than I need. I am getting around 20/21 MPG overall and 28 to 30 on the highway. I have not had it in the snow yet, but with all-wheel drive I am sure it will do fine. I have not had as much pleasure in driving for many years.

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  A joy to drive - 2000 BMW Z3
  By JamesATL - November 4 - 2:00 am

  This car is simply a joy to drive in every aspect. It has great power, handles perfectly and has a very sex/fun look to it. If you like to drive this is the car for you.

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  Bimmer Bummer - 1997 BMW 5-Series
  By delawaredriver - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Electrical and mechanical problems plague this car. It has more rattles than an old Chevy. Thank goodness for the extended warranty. I used to overlook the failures because of how much "fun" it is to drive a BMW. No more! Cant wait to get rid of it.

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  Pure Pleasure - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By ClaireKrais - November 2 - 2:00 am

  This cars overall performance and luxury is excellent. A solid car that drives out perfectly as if it were still brand new. This is my second BMW. The only thing better than my 528iA...could only be the new 745Li!

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  Amazing power and mileage with 535d!! - 2016 BMW 5-Series
  By Wade Lestage - November 1 - 10:22 am

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  WHAT A EXCELLENT CAR - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By sade - October 31 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE HAD NO PROBLEMS OUT OF MY CAR.NOW I GET LOOKS BECAUSE I WAS NOT GETTING LOOKS ON MY 98 NISSANN ALTIMA I JUST HAVE TO SAY AND GIVE IT AN EXCELLENT.