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For other uses, see BMW (disambiguation).
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG
Company typeAktiengesellschaft
IndustryAutomotive
Founded1916
Headquarters
Germany Munich
,
Germany
Key people
Germany Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman and CEO
ProductsAutomobiles
Motorcycles
RevenueIncrease €49 billion (2006)
13,999,000,000 Euro (2022) Edit this on Wikidata
18,582,000,000 Euro (2022) Edit this on Wikidata
Total assets228,034,000,000 Euro (2019) Edit this on Wikidata
Number of employees
107,079 (2007)
SubsidiariesMINI
Rolls-Royce
Websitewww.bmw.com
BMW Headquarters in Munich, Germany.

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), is an independent German company and manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles. BMW is the parent company of the MINI and Rolls-Royce car brands. It is also one of the leading German car manufacturers.


History

Main article: History of BMW

BMW was officially founded as a public company in 1922, but traces its origins to the pioneering days of German aviation all the way back to 1913. Two of these pioneering men, Karl Rapp and Gustav Otto, are credited by BMW as the "founding fathers". However, BMW owes its actual founding by three men- Josef Popp, Max Friz, and Camillo Castiglioni. These men brought BMW through many turbulent times in the company's early life, as well as taking the company public in 1922 to form BMW AG. Beginning with aircraft engines, BMW AG produced a variety of products in its early years, eventually moving to motorcycle production in 1923 and automobiles in 1929.

Motorcycles

Main article: BMW motorcycles
R32: the first BMW motorcycle

BMW started building motorcycle engines and then motorcycles after WWI. Their first notable motorcycle, the "R32" came in 1923. These had a "boxer twin" engine, in which an air-cooled cylinder protrudes into the air-fllow from each side of the machine. Other than a few post-war singles (basically to the same pattern), all their motorcycles had used this distinctive, unusual (but well-regarded) layout until the early 1980s. Many BMWs are still produced to this pattern, which is designated the "R series".

During WWII BMW produced the BMW R75 motorcycle with a sidecar attached. Unusually, the sidecar's wheel was also driven. Combined with a lockable differential, this made the vehicle very capable off-road, an equivalent in many ways to the Jeep.

In 1983 came the "K Series" (affectionately known as "The Flying Brick"), still shaft drive but now water cooled and with either 3 or 4 cylinders mounted in a straight line from front to back. Shortly after, BMW also started making the chain-driven F and G series with single and parallel twin Rotax engines.

BMW motorcycles have a range of models that give an off-road, sporty or relaxed and comfortable ride.

In the early 1990s, BMW updated the airhead boxer engine which became known as the Oilhead. In 2002, the Oilhead engine had two spark plugs per cylinder. In 2004 it added a built-in balance shaft, an increased capacity to 1170 cc and enhanced performance to 100 hp (75 kW) for the R1200GS, compared to 85 hp (63 kW) of the previous R1150GS. More powerful variants of the oilhead and hexhead engines are available in the R1100S and R1200S, producing Template:Auto hp and Template:Auto hp, respectively. also bow

K1200GT

In 2004, BMW introduced the new K1200S Sports Bike which marked a departure for BMW. It is both powerful (the engine is a Template:Auto hp unit derived from the company's work with the Williams F1 team) and significantly lighter than previous K models. It was BMW's latest attempt to keep up with the pace of development of sports machines from the likes of Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki. Innovations include a unique electronically adjustable front and rear suspension, and a Hossack-type front fork BMW calls Duolever.

BMW was one of the earliest manufacturers to offer anti-lock brakes on production motorcycles starting in the late 1980s. The generation of anti-lock brakes available on the 2006 and later BMW motorcycles pave the way for the introduction of sophisticated electronic stability control, or anti-skid technology - a first for production motorcycles - later in the 2007 model year.

BMW has always been an innovator in motorcycle suspension design, taking up telescopic front suspension long before most other manufacturers. Then, when other makers caught up, they switched to Earles Forke, front suspension by swinging fork (1955 to 1969). Most modern BMWs are truly rear swingarm, single sided at the back (cf the regular swinging fork usually, and wrongly, called swinging arm).

Some BMWs started using yet another trademark front suspension design, the Telelever, in the early 1990s. Like the Earles Fork, the Telelever largely obviates dive under braking.

Motorcycle Clubs

Fanfare of the BMW motorcycle has invoked the interest in clubs, or groups of people who share the same passion for their Bavarian bikes. The two largest BMW motorcycle clubs in the world are headquartered in the United States. They are the BMW Riders Association (BMW RA) and the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America (BMW MOA).

Automobiles

Current

The current BMW model lineup is split into what is referred to as "Series", traditionally identified by a single digit - e.g. the 3 Series.

In 2004 BMW announced plans to make odd-numbered series saloon/sedan and estate/wagon models (BMW calls its estates/wagons Touring models), while even-numbered series will be two-door coupés and cabriolets. This convention started informally in 1976 with the introduction of the 6 Series and later continued in 1989 with the 8 Series, but died off when the latter was discontinued in 1999. This practice was revived as the Z4 replaced the aging Z3 roadster in 2003 and continues as the new 6 Series augments the existing BMW 5 Series.

2007 1 Series 5 door with the 1 Series facelift

1 Series

Main article: BMW 1 Series

The 1 Series is a brand entry-level vehicle which was launched in Fall 2004 and a 3-Door that was launched in July 2007 on the BMW International website. Because it is the only rear wheel drive vehicle in its class, it is considered the heir apparent to the original 2002 sport sedan from the 1960s. A Coupé has been announced for late 2007, and there are concepts for a convertible. U.S. introduction for the 1 series is expected in MY 2008 as a coupé and convertible, in the 128i and the 135i. The 135i is slated to receive the Template:Auto horsepower twin turbo 6 cylinder engine from the 3 series. The 1 series pricing fits neatly between MINI and the current E90 3-series.

3 Series

Main article: BMW 3 Series

The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car manufactured since MY 1975. The E90 is the 5th generation 3 series. Available from MY 2005 to present, it is offered as the sport sedan(E90), sport wagon(E91), sport coupe(E92), and sport coupe convertible(E93). The E90 series is completely re-engineered from the E46, including changes to motor choices, transmission, the passenger compartment comfort, suspension technology, as well as a host of High-Tech features and options.

The 3 series is not only one of BMW's most important models, it also accounts for a majority of worldwide sales.

5 Series

Main article: BMW 5 Series

A mid-size luxury car / executive car. For MY 2008, BMW has revised the 5 series with a slightly redesigned interior, subtle exterior details, and new motor options. The motors offered are BMW's N52 and N54 inline 6-cylinder motors, as well as diesel and V8 options.

The BMW 5 series has been one of BMW's "experimenal" cars, in which they can explore newer ideas. They have inserted new technologies and new ideas into this model that may have seemed radical for its time. One such example of this "testing" approach is the new headlight design. These types of changes to the 5 Series have allowed BMW to assess the reaction of consumers to their new designs before expanding the changes to other model series. Consequently, it has at times led people to question BMW's approach to design.

  • The M5 is the motorsport division's version of the 5 Series. The new M5 (built on the E60 5 series chassis) is powered by a F1-inspired V10 engine, producing Template:Auto hp and is mated with a 7-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) transmission, which is capable of a delimited top speed of about 330 km/h (production variants are restricted to 250 km/h, or 155 mph). BMW has also recently added a 6-speed manual transmission for newer 2007 models. The colour palette differs from its more modest 5 Series siblings.
  • 2005 5 Series with M Sport Package
    2005 5 Series with M Sport Package
  • 2007 5-Series Touring with M Sport Package
    2007 5-Series Touring with M Sport Package
  • 2007 M5
    2007 M5
  • E39 BMW M5 (previous generation)
    E39 BMW M5 (previous generation)

6 Series

Main article: BMW 6 Series

The 6 Series is BMW's grand touring luxury sport coupé. Currently available as the 650i in coupé and coupé convertible, the 6 series returned in 2004, after a 15 year absence from BMW's model lineup.

Although many spy photos were seen with the 6-Series having a half-life update, like the 5-Series, BMW released the updated 6-Series in July 2007. It is unknown when the M6 coupe & cabriolet update versions will be released, however both are expected soon.

  • M6: A high performance version of the 6 Series. Developed by BMW's M Division, it is powered by the same 5.0 L V10 Template:Auto hp engine seen in the BMW M5. It is currently available in Europe, North America and Australia.
  • 2004 6 Series Convertible(645i)
    2004 6 Series Convertible(645i)
  • 6 Series Coupe (650i)
    6 Series Coupe (650i)
  • 6 Series Convertible (645i)
    6 Series Convertible (645i)
  • 6 Series Coupe (645i)
    6 Series Coupe (645i)
BMW 7-Series (current generation, pre-update)

7 Series

Main article: BMW 7 Series

BMW's full-size flagship executive sedan. Typically, BMW introduces much of their innovations first in the vaunted 7 series. It has been deemed a "sports car at the helm and a limousine in the rear". Numerous landmark and breakthrough technologies for the entire automotive industry debut on the 7 series. For example, the groundbreaking and controversial iDrive, or the world's first Hydrogen powered production vehicle, have all debuted in the 7 series. The 7-Series Hydrogen, the world’s first luxury performance sedan with hydrogen drive, it runs on the most plentiful element in the world and emits virtually nothing but water vapor. And because the infrastructure for refueling a hydrogen internal combustion engine is not yet complete, the V12 engine also runs on gasoline, enabled via a push button system. Numerous engines power the 7 series worldwide. BMW offers diesel, V8 and V12 motors, as well as the Alpina tuned supercharged V8. Additionally, the 760Li is also made in a bulletproof version.[citation needed]

BMW X3 (current generation, update)

X3

Main article: BMW X3

BMW's second SUV debuted in 2004 (called SAV or Sports Activity Vehicle by BMW) and is based on the E46 3 Series layout within, but without, it is quite unique. For 2007, the X3 is powered by the N52 inline 6 cylinder engine that debuted with the 2006 E90 3 Series. The X3 is a more functionally oriented vehicle that American buyers seem to prefer over a wagon; it is BMW's answer to the growing crossover segment of the market. It has performed quite well in sales, but in 2007 a face lift was given to the X3, including an X-drive update, suspension adjustments, an engine upgrade, and aesthetics inside and out.

Marketed in Europe as an off-roader, it benefits from an advanced all-wheel drive system. This, combined with its standard "Enhanced DSC" stability control, make the X3 a capable vehicle on and off road.

X5

Main article: BMW X5
2007 E70 BMW X5

The BMW X5 (E53) is a mid-size luxury SUV (SAV) sold by BMW since 2000. It features all-wheel drive and a line of straight-6 and V8 engines. For non-US models there is a 3.0 L diesel engine.

The BMW E70 automobile platform replaced the BMW E53 in November 2006. The E70-based X5 SUV features many new technological advancements including BMW's iDrive system as standard equipment and, for the first time in a BMW, an optional third row seat which has increased the seating capacity in the new X5 to 7 passengers.

The E53 model was rated the by IIHS in 2002 to be the safest vehicle that organization had ever tested.[citation needed] Since then, BMW has applied their craft to the current generation E70 to incorporate innovative "firsts" for the SUV/SAV industry, such as Run Flat Tires, complimentary BMW Assist, and a unique rear framing section to protect 3rd row occupants from injury due to an impact.

Z4

Main article: BMW Z4

A 2-seater roadster and coupé which succeeded the Z3. For 2006 the Z4 Roadster is available as a 3.0i (3.0 L I6 with 215 hp), a 3.0si available with the new generation 3.0 L I6 with Template:Auto hp, a 2.5si with a 2.5 I6 with Template:Auto bhp or a 2.0i with a Template:Auto bhp 2.0 L I4. The Z4 Coupé is available only in the high-performance 3.0si trim powered by the 3.0 L Template:Auto hp I6.

  • Z4 M The new Z4 M roadster has been released as a Z4 with an E46 M3 motor (3.2 L, 343 hp) and also features the M braking, suspension, and M characteristics. There is also an M coupe model available.
  • 2006 Z4 Roadster
    2006 Z4 Roadster
  • 2006 Z4 Coupe
    2006 Z4 Coupe
  • 2007 Z4 M Roadster
    2007 Z4 M Roadster
  • 2006 Z4 M Roadster
    2006 Z4 M Roadster

BMW M

Main article: BMW M

BMW M GmbH (previously: BMW Motorsport GmbH) is a subsidiary of German car manufacturer BMW AG established in May 1972 with just eight employees. BMW M, also known as M-Technik or just "M" (for Motorsport) was initially created to facilitate BMW’s racing program, which was very successful in the 1960s and 1970s. The first racing project was BMW’s 3.0 CSL; in the late 1970s the first modified street legal road cars were produced for the contracted racecar drivers as their personal vehicles. By 1988, the number of employees had risen to 400.

M3

E92 M3 Coupé
Main article: BMW M3

Based on the 3 Series Coupe & Convertible, the M3 defined an entirely new market for BMW: a race ready production vehicle. Since its debut, the M3 is heralded in enthusiast circles, in large part due to its unique geometry and award winning powerplants. As a testament to how well received this vehicle is, all retired models have quickly made it to "collector" status.[citation needed] MY2008 marks the first time a Formula 1 inspired V8 will be offered.[citation needed], producing 420 hp (313 kW) that can reach 62 mi:h[convert: unknown unit] in about 4.5 seconds. The newest version (E92) will be available fall of 2007 in Europe, and second quarter of 2008 for the U.S.

M5

Main article: BMW M5

Based on the 5 Series, the M5 is the M division's 500 hp (373 kW) V10-powered version of the E60 5 series which makes 62 mi:h[convert: unknown unit] in 4.1 seconds,[1] impressive for a 4 door saloon car. The M5 was the first 4-door sedan to be considered a sports car, and is the fastest production sedan on the planet. There is also a modified twin turbo version that can reach 62 mi:h[convert: unknown unit] in just 3.6 seconds, giving 810 bhp (604 kW) and 733 lp-ft (994 Nm) of torque, with a top speed of 240 mph (386 km/h). However this car is limited to 155 mi:h[convert: unknown unit].[2]

M6

Main article: BMW M6

The M6 is the M division's version of the E63. The M6 shares its drivetrain with the M5. The V10 produces Template:Auto horsepower and Template:Auto ft.lbf of torque. This new engine is mated to a seven-speed SMG transmission.

Z4 M

Main articles: BMW M Coupe and BMW M Roadster

BMW’s two-seater is powered by the same prize-winning 3.2-liter straight-six M engine also featured in the BMW M3(E46) and the BMW Z4 Roadster. The engine’s performance figures are: 3,246 cc displacement, Template:Auto bhp maximum output at an engine speed of 7,900 rpm, maximum engine speed of 8,000 rpm. No less than 80 per cent of the engine’s maximum torque of Template:Auto ft.lbf is available at the driver’s request from just 2,000 rpm. Output per liter is Template:Auto bhp, giving the Z4 M Coupe a power-to-weight ratio of just 9.9 lb/bhp. Acceleration to 60 mi:h[convert: unknown unit] comes in 4.8 seconds and top speed is limited electronically to 155 mi:h[convert: unknown unit].

Future

  • Z10: A supercar to succeed the Z8, to be produced in 2008 (Update: The new BMW supercar may in fact be called the Z9, and not the Z10. Update 2: It may even be called the M10 since by late september 2007 BMW Group has registered "M10" as a brand)
  • BMW V/F3 : An MPV (Sports Tourer) based on the BMW 3-Series/X3 to compete with Mercedes-Benz B-Class. This vehicle could also possibly be the rumoured X1, or called the F3.
  • BMW V/F5 : A MPV (Grand Sports Tourer) based on the BMW 5-Series/X5 to compete with Mercedes-Benz R-Class. This vehicle could also possibly be called the F5.
  • BMW Z2 : A Roadster and Coupe positioned under the Z4 as an entry level sports car, more than likely powered by a 4 cylinder engine. This model may come out in 2009, however it is still an unconfirmed rumour.
  • BMW F01/F02 7-Series : The F01 and F02 will be the replacement for the 7-Series for either 2008 or 2009. The F02 is the longer wheelbase version. In addition there will be a "Baby Roller" or mini Rolls Royce that will be under 200,000 that will compete with the Bentley Continental line up.
  • BMW X6: A coupe-based SUV. The X6 has been spotted testing.
  • BMW 8-Series: Unrelated to the original; a four-door grand tourer car to be based on the BMW CS Concept, competing against Mercedes-Benz CLS Class.[3]

Prototypes

  • 1990 BMW M8 Prototype A prototype designed as a "Ferrari killer". It was never put into production because of the lack of a market for such a car.
  • 1999 Z9: a concept car designed by Adrian van Hooydonk marked a departure from BMW's traditional conservative style, and has caused some controversy among BMW enthusiasts.
  • BMW 750hL showcased at Expo 2000 at the BMW World exhibit. As one of the world's first autos to use an engine propelled by liquid hydrogen, the 750hL produces 2 by products: electricity and water. There are as of March 2007, 100 750hL vehicles in the USA for testing purposes.See the BMW website.
  • 2001 xCoupe
  • 2007 BMW CS Concept[1] - BMW has expressed interest in producing the vehicle under the 8 Series name.

Out of production

  • M1: a 1970s mid-engine sports car, designed in conjunction with Lamborghini. As Lamborghini went into bankruptcy the production was shifted to the German Karmanwerke.
  • Z3: a 2-seater roadster.
    • M coupé and roadster: high-performance hard-top and soft-top versions of the Z3, very popular among enthusiasts. The Z3 was first shown on the big screen in the James Bond film GoldenEye, marking the first time Pierce Brosnan played Bond and the first time the MI6 agent's gadget-laden car wasn't British.
  • 8 Series: a fast, high-technology coupé of the 1990s. Unconfirmed rumors suggest that this may be revived, see BMW CS Concept, to compete against the globally acclaimed Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class.
  • Z1: a late 1980s two-seater with innovative modular construction; only 8,000 were made. Best known for the feature of the vertically sliding doors.
  • Z8: a roadster with design based on the classic 507 roadster from the 1950s. Debuted in the James Bond film The World Is Not Enough, marking the last time Bond would drive a BMW. Only 5000 were built, the last 500 being a special edition built by Alpina but sold directly from BMW. This exciting halo car was built on an aluminium space frame design.

Classics

BMW 319/1 – built in 1935

BMW made many cars over the years which have had great impact on the world of motoring.

Series Generations

Internally, BMW associates an "e-code" for each generation of a series ("E" stands for Entwicklung, German for development or evolution). These "chassis codes" only change to signify a major redesign of a series, or the introduction of a new series. BMW AG reported in September 2006 that BMW would switch to the letter "F" for their future models, beginning with the F01 7 Series replacement.

2.5, 2.8, 3.0, 3.3 "New Six" sedans

  • BMW E9 — (1969–1975) 2800CS, 3.0CS, 3.0CSL "New Six" coupés
  • BMW E12 — (1974–1981) 5 Series
  • BMW E21 — (1976–1983) 3 Series
  • BMW E23 — (1977–1986) 7 Series
  • BMW E24 — (1976–1989) 6 Series
  • BMW E26 — (1978–1981) M1
  • BMW E28 — (1981–1987) 5 Series
  • BMW E30 — (1984–1991) 3 Series (1982-1983 E30 sold in Europe)
  • BMW E31 — (1989–1997) 8 Series
  • BMW E32 — (1986–1994) 7 Series
  • BMW E34 — (1988–1995) 5 Series
  • BMW E36 — (1992–1999) 3 Series
  • BMW E36/5 — (1995–1998) 3 Series Compact (US market known as "318ti")
  • BMW E36/7 — (1996-2002) Z3 Series Roadster
  • BMW E36/8 — (1998-2002) Z3 Series Coupé
  • BMW E38 — (1994–2001) 7 Series
  • BMW E39 — (1995–2003) 5 Series
  • BMW E46/5 — (2000–2004) 3 Series Compact
  • BMW E46/4 — (1998–2005) 3 Series Sedan
  • BMW E46/3 — (1999–2005) 3 Series Touring/Sports Wagon
  • BMW E46/2 — (1999–2006) 3 Series Coupé
  • BMW E46/C — (1999–2006) 3 Series Convertible
  • BMW E52 — (2000–2003) Z8
  • BMW E53 — (2000–2006) X5
  • BMW E60 — (2004–present) 5 Series
  • BMW E61 — (2004–2007) 5 Series Touring/Sports Wagon
  • BMW E63 — (2004–present) 6 Series coupé
  • BMW E64 — (2004–present) 6 Series convertible
  • BMW E65 — (2002–2007) 7 Series short wheelbase
  • BMW E66 — (2002–2007) 7 Series long wheelbase
  • BMW E67 — (2002–2007) 7 Series Protection
  • BMW E70 — (2007-present) X5
  • BMW E71 — (2008) X6
  • BMW E72 — (2008) X6 Hybrid
  • BMW E81 — (2007-present) 1 Series (3-door)
  • BMW E82 — (2007-present) 1 Series Coupé
  • BMW E82/2 — (2010) Z2
  • BMW E83 — (2004–present) X3
  • BMW E85 — (2003–present) Z4
  • BMW E86 — (2006–present) Z4 Coupé
  • BMW E87 — (2004–present) 1 Series (5-door)
  • BMW E88 — (2008) 1 Series Convertible
  • BMW E89 — (2009) Z4 roadster
  • BMW E90 — (2005–present) 3 Series
  • BMW E91 — (2005–present) 3 Series Touring/Sports Wagon
  • BMW E92 — (2006–present) 3 Series Coupé
  • BMW E93 — (2007–present) 3 Series Convertible
  • BMW E99 — (2009) V5
  • BMW F01 — (2008) 7 Series
  • BMW F02 — (2009) 7 Series long wheelbase
  • BMW F03 — (2008) 7 Series Protection
  • BMW F04 — (2009) 8 Series Light Base
  • BMW F10 — (2010) 5 Series
  • BMW F11 — (2012) 5 Series Touring/Sports Wagon
  • BMW F12 — (2011) 6 Series Coupé
  • BMW F13 — (2011) 6 Series Convertible
  • BMW F25 — (2011) X3

Motorsport

Main article: BMW Motorsport
BMW Sauber F1 Team Logo.
BMW first entered Formula One as a fully-fledged team in 2006.

BMW has been engaged in motorsport activities since the dawn of the first BMW motorcycle. BMW has competed and won many of the most coveted and prestigious races and motoring events.

Sponsoring

Formula car

  • Formula One - BMW won the 19 grand prixs as an engine builder and did not win as a team/constructor until 2006
    • BMW Sauber F1 Team - current BMW works Formula One team
    • WilliamsF1 - former Formula One partner, and designer of BMW's Le Mans winning sports car
    • Brabham - Former Formula One partner, winning the Drivers Championship in 1983
    • Arrows, used BMW engines from 1984 to 1986

Sports car

Touring car

BMW has a long and very successful history in this category, touring car racing.

Rally

Culture

The term "beemer" started as an acronym for the abbreviation "BMW," adapted from the early-20th century British pronunciation of BSA (as "beeser" or "beezer"), whose motorcycles were often racing BMWs. Over time, the term became closely associated with BMW motorcycles.

In the United States, the term "bimmer" was later coined to refer (exclusively) to BMW automobiles. As such, use of the word "beemer" to refer to a BMW automobile is frowned upon by some BMW enthusiasts,[4] because it is the term used for motorcycles. Although the distinction is completely arbitrary, to this day, the media, movies, and most people still use the term "beemer" to refer to the automobiles.

The initials BMW are pronounced "bay emm vay" in German. The model series are referred to as "Dreier" ("Three-er" for 3 series), "Fünfer" ("Five-er" for the 5 series), "Sechser" ("Six-er" for the 6 series), "Siebener" ("Seven-er" for the 7 series).

Nomenclature

BMWs follow a certain nomenclature in the naming many of their vehicles; a 3 digit number is followed by 1 or 2 letters. The first number is the series number. The next two numbers is traditionally the engine displacement in liters multiplied by 10.

The system of letters is as follows:

  • d = diesel
  • i = fuel-injected
  • x = all wheel drive
  • L = long wheel base
  • C = coupe
  • T = touring (wagon/estate)
  • t = hatchback
  • g = biogas
  • s = sport package

For example, a BMW 760Li is a fuel-injected 7 Series with a long wheel base and 6.0 litres of displacement.

However, there are exceptions. The 2007 BMW 328i is a 3 Series that has a 3.0 liter engine. The 2007 BMW 335i has that same 3.0 liter engine, however it is twin-turbocharged and not identified in the nomenclature.

The 'M' - for Motorsport - Series has a very simple nomenclature: M3, M5, M6, etc. It identifies the high-performance 'M' version of a particular series. For example, the M6 is the highest performing vehicle in the 6 Series lineup. Although 'M' cars should be separated into their respective series platforms, it is very common to see 'M' cars grouped together as its own series.

The 'Z' identifies a BMW two seater roadster. For example the Z1, Z3 and Z4. M varients of Z models have the M as a suffix, depending on country of sale. (e.g. 'Z4 M')

When the 'X' supersedes the series number (e.g. X3 and X5), this nomenclature refers to the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) lineup.

Also, Station-wagons/Estates are traditionally given the "Touring" or "Sport Wagon" tagline, depending on country of sale.

Community

BMW logo sign in Düsseldorf

BMW has always had a very tight and loyal community following. In the summer of 2001, BMW even went as far as starting the BMW Films website, showcasing some sporty models being driven to extremes. These videos are very popular within the enthusiast community and have opened the eyes of many owners looking for a sporty/fun car. However, even with all this success, on October 21st, 2005, the BMW Films were taken offline.

Every year since 1999, BMW enthusiasts have met up in Santa Barbara, CA to attend Bimmerfest. Perhaps one of the largest brand-specific gatherings in the U.S. Over 3000 people attended in 2006, and there were over 1000 cars present. In 2007, the event was held on May 5.

  • Automobilwerk Eisenach
  • Isetta
  • Glas
  • Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited
  • Rover: briefly owned by BMW, which retained the Mini after selling off the rest of the company (see MG Rover Group).
  • Land Rover: sold to Ford; the current Range Rover was developed mostly by BMW during their ownership of the company and until recently was powered by their 4.4 L V8 petrol (gasoline) engine and continues to use the BMW 3.0 L I6 diesel engine
  • MINI: a small hatchback; inspired by the original Mini, which was the British competitor to the Volkswagen Beetle.
  • Wiesmann: A company making sporty 2-seater roadsters and coupés for which BMW supplies the engine and transmission components.
  • DesignworksUSA: Design studio founded in 1972 by Charles W. Pelly, and owned by BMW AG since May 1995. DesignworksUSA has worked on various designs for BMW and other companies, not just automobile. One of the latest designs is computer keyboard and mouse, which were sold by BenQ as x700 Pro keyboard, x730 Pro wireless keyborard and mouse combo, M306 wireless mouse.
  • Bavaria Wirtschaftsagentur GmbH: BMW Group subsidiary that offers insurance services.
  • Softlab GmbH: IT consulting and systems integration.
  • AC Schnitzer: A tuning company specialising in BMW vehicles.
  • Alpina: A Motor Manufacturer in its own right, who creates vehicles based on BMW cars.
  • Breyton: A tuning manufacturer specialising in BMW cars.
  • G-Power: A tuning company specialising in BMW vehicles.
  • Hartge: A tuning company specialising in BMW, MINI and Range Rover cars.
  • Hamann Motorsport: A Motor Styling and Tuning Specialist who creates vehicles based on BMW cars.
  • MK-Motorsport: A tuning company specialising in BMW cars.

See also

References

  1. ^ "Technische Daten M5" (PDF). bmw.de. Retrieved 2007-06-22.
  2. ^ bhp-bmw-v10-m5-by-currency-motor-cars|title=810 bhp WorldCarFans.com
  3. ^ "BMW Concept CS revealed at Shanghai Motor Show". paultan.org. Retrieved 2007-06-23.
  4. ^ "Bimmer vs. Beemer". boston-bmwcca.org. Retrieved 2007-06-23.
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