BMW, a name synonymous with engineering excellence, luxury, and dynamic performance, has carved an indelible mark in the automotive world over the last century. From its early beginnings in aircraft engine manufacturing to becoming a global icon in the automotive industry, BMW has delivered some of the most legendary and memorable vehicles the world has ever seen. This journey is not just about cars; it’s about style, precision, innovation, and a passion for driving. Below is a look at 50 iconic BMW cars that stood out, showcasing the evolution of design, technology, and performance—many of which are among the best BMW cars of all time.
The Early Days of Innovation: 1920s–1940s
BMW 3/15 DA-2 (1929)
As BMW’s first production car, the 3/15 DA-2 marked the brand’s entry into the automotive world. Compact and simple, it paved the way for future innovation.
BMW 328 (1936)
A lightweight sports car that became a motorsport legend, the 328 was revolutionary with its aluminum body and powerful inline-six engine.
Post-War Recovery and Engineering Excellence: 1950s
BMW 501 (1952)
Nicknamed the “Baroque Angel,” the 501 was a luxury sedan that marked BMW’s return to car manufacturing after World War II.
BMW 507 (1956)
The 507 is one of the most beautiful BMWs ever made. A favorite of celebrities like Elvis Presley, it combined classic roadster charm with V8 power.
Entering the Modern Age: 1960s
BMW 700 (1959)
A compact, affordable car that saved BMW from financial ruin. It played a crucial role in stabilizing the company.
BMW Neue Klasse 1500 (1962)
This model laid the foundation for BMW’s modern identity. It was the birth of the sporty sedan, blending performance with practicality.
BMW 2002 (1968)
A true legend and one of the best BMW cars of all time. It defined the brand’s sporty DNA and gave rise to the iconic 3 Series.
Performance and Prestige: 1970s
BMW E9 3.0 CSL (1971)
Known as the “Batmobile,” the 3.0 CSL was a homologation special that dominated touring car racing and showcased BMW’s motorsport credentials.
BMW E12 5 Series (1972)
The first generation of the 5 Series established BMW’s mid-size executive car segment and emphasized sporty driving with luxury.
BMW E21 3 Series (1975)
This model began the best-selling 3 Series lineage, combining compact design with dynamic performance.
BMW M1 (1978)
BMW’s first mid-engine supercar. The M1 is a rare gem, representing both a design revolution and motorsport heritage.
Turbocharged Ambitions: 1980s
BMW E28 M5 (1984)
The original M5, often referred to as the first true sports sedan, was powered by a detuned M1 engine, offering exceptional performance in a discreet package.
BMW E30 3 Series (1982–1994)
A cultural and motorsport icon. The E30, especially the M3 variant, became a cornerstone of BMW’s performance legacy.
BMW 7 Series E23 (1977–1986)
The luxury flagship brought advanced tech like ABS and onboard computers, setting benchmarks for executive sedans.
BMW Z1 (1989)
This futuristic roadster had unique doors that dropped into the body and introduced BMW’s Z-car roadster legacy.
A New Era of Luxury and Performance: 1990s
BMW E36 3 Series (1990)
A more refined and aerodynamic evolution of the E30. The M3 variant became a track hero and a tuner favorite.
BMW 850i (E31) (1990)
With a V12 engine and futuristic styling, the 850i was BMW’s high-tech grand tourer that redefined luxury performance.
BMW E34 M5 Touring (1992)
A rare high-performance wagon combining everyday practicality with motorsport DNA.
BMW Z3 (1995)
Popularized by James Bond in GoldenEye, the Z3 brought sporty fun in a compact, affordable package.
BMW E39 5 Series (1995)
A perfect blend of comfort, technology, and handling, often regarded as one of the best BMW cars of all time.
The 21st Century Begins: 2000s
BMW E46 M3 (2000)
Arguably the most beloved M3 ever, known for its perfect balance, high-revving straight-six engine, and timeless design.
BMW E60 M5 (2005)
Powered by a 5.0L V10 engine, this M5 delivered supercar performance in sedan form, pushing the boundaries of what was possible.
BMW Z4 E85 (2002)
Replacing the Z3, the Z4 had more aggressive styling and improved handling, strengthening BMW’s roadster lineup.
BMW 1 Series Coupe (E82) (2007)
The spiritual successor to the 2002, this compact coupe offered rear-wheel drive fun in an affordable package.
BMW 335i (E90/E92) (2006)
With a twin-turbo inline-six, this 3 Series variant offered incredible performance and tuning potential.
Precision Meets Technology: 2010s
BMW i8 (2014)
A plug-in hybrid supercar with futuristic design. The i8 showcased BMW’s commitment to sustainable performance.
BMW M2 (F87) (2015)
Compact, powerful, and rear-wheel-drive, the M2 instantly became a favorite among purists and was considered one of the best driver’s cars of the decade.
BMW 7 Series G11 (2015)
Featuring carbon core construction, gesture controls, and semi-autonomous driving tech, the G11 was a technological tour de force.
BMW X5 M (F85) (2014)
Blending SUV practicality with M Division power, the X5 M showed how performance could coexist with luxury and utility.
BMW 3 Series G20 (2018)
The latest iteration of the iconic 3 Series, combining efficiency, digital tech, and razor-sharp driving dynamics.
Electric Dreams and Future Visions: 2020s
BMW i4 (2021)
An electric gran coupe with impressive performance and range, offering a seamless transition from combustion to EVs.
BMW iX (2021)
BMW’s flagship electric SUV, packed with cutting-edge tech and bold design, aiming to redefine premium electric mobility.
BMW M3 G80 (2020)
Controversial grille aside, the G80 is a performance monster, now with optional all-wheel drive and even more tech.
BMW M5 CS (2021)
The most powerful production BMW ever made, the M5 CS is lighter, faster, and more focused than any M5 before it.
BMW 2 Series Coupe G42 (2021)
Rear-wheel-drive architecture and classic proportions make the latest 2 Series a throwback to BMW’s roots in sporty compacts.
Honorable Mentions That Still Turn Heads
BMW 2000 CS (1965)
Precursor to the E9 coupe, with elegant lines and an upscale interior.
BMW E38 7 Series (1994)
A favorite among enthusiasts for its timeless design and superb driving dynamics.
BMW E24 6 Series (1976)
A stylish grand tourer that became a symbol of ‘80s luxury and sophistication.
BMW X6 (2008)
The original SUV coupe, it created a new niche that blended bold styling with utility.
BMW 1M Coupe (2011)
Limited-run, pure driver’s car with a manual transmission and M performance in a compact shell.
BMW M6 (E63) (2005)
High-powered luxury coupe with a screaming V10 and bold presence.
BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe (2014)
Sleek design and practicality made this a favorite among enthusiasts wanting style with substance.
BMW 330e (2020)
A plug-in hybrid that balances performance and efficiency, showing BMW’s commitment to a greener future.
BMW XM (2022)
BMW’s first standalone M car since the M1, the XM brings electrified power to the high-performance SUV world.
BMW Z8 (2000)
A modern classic, blending retro design with cutting-edge tech, famously driven by James Bond in The World Is Not Enough.
From pioneering roadsters to electrified luxury machines, these 50 iconic vehicles define BMW’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Each model reflects a chapter in the brand’s storied legacy and reinforces its place in history as the maker of some of the best BMW cars of all time.