BMW has long been a symbol of precision engineering, luxurious performance, and innovative design. Over the decades, the German automaker has introduced vehicles that not only redefined driving pleasure but also reshaped the entire automotive landscape. From motorsport dominance to luxury sedans that became benchmarks in their segments, BMW’s legacy is rich with icons. Here is a deep dive into the top 10 BMW cars that changed automotive history, many of which also stand proudly among the best BMW cars of all time.
BMW 328 (1936)
The BMW 328 is the car that put BMW on the global automotive map. Introduced in the late 1930s, the 328 was a lightweight roadster powered by a 2.0-liter straight-six engine. It excelled in motorsport, especially in endurance racing, and won the Mille Miglia in 1940—a race dominated by Italian cars until that point. What made the 328 legendary was its focus on handling and agility, traits that would become the backbone of BMW’s engineering philosophy. The success of the 328 cemented BMW’s reputation as a maker of performance-oriented vehicles.
BMW 507 (1956)
With its breathtaking design and limited production, the BMW 507 is one of the most collectible classic cars today. Designed by Albrecht von Goertz, it was aimed at the American market and hoped to compete with the Mercedes-Benz 300SL. While it failed commercially due to its high price, it played a crucial role in shaping BMW’s future. The car’s sleek lines, V8 engine, and open-top driving experience influenced future BMW roadsters. Elvis Presley famously owned two of them, giving the 507 cult status. It stands tall among the best BMW cars of all time.
BMW 2002 (1968)
Arguably the car that saved BMW, the 2002 defined the concept of the modern sports sedan. With its compact body, powerful 2.0-liter engine, and responsive handling, the 2002 delivered a spirited drive that appealed to enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. It was one of the first cars to successfully combine practicality with performance. The 2002 laid the groundwork for the iconic 3 Series and helped establish BMW as the ultimate driving machine brand. It changed how the world perceived sporty compact cars.
BMW 3.0 CSL (1972)
The 3.0 CSL, nicknamed the “Batmobile” due to its aggressive aero package, was a homologation special built for racing. This lightweight coupe was instrumental in BMW’s dominance in touring car championships in the 1970s. With its distinctive flared fenders and powerful inline-six engine, it also became a design icon. More importantly, it marked the genesis of BMW Motorsport GmbH, the division responsible for all future M cars. The 3.0 CSL was not just a race car; it was a game-changer that bridged racing and road cars.
BMW E30 M3 (1986)
No list of groundbreaking BMWs is complete without the legendary E30 M3. Created for Group A racing, the E30 M3 became a performance icon on both the track and the street. With its high-revving four-cylinder engine, precise chassis, and aggressive styling, it quickly became a favorite among driving enthusiasts. It is widely regarded as one of the best BMW cars of all time, and its motorsport pedigree is unmatched. The E30 M3 set the standard for future M3 models and solidified BMW’s dominance in performance sedans.
BMW 850CSi (1992)
The 8 Series, particularly the 850CSi, was BMW’s answer to the high-performance GT cars of the 1990s. With a 5.6-liter V12 engine and cutting-edge technology for its time, including electronic stability control and active rear-wheel steering, the 850CSi was ahead of its era. This car was luxurious, fast, and built like a tank. It also hinted at BMW’s future direction of blending grand touring comfort with high-speed capability. Though it was produced in limited numbers, it remains a symbol of BMW’s engineering excellence.
BMW Z3 M Coupe (1998)
The Z3 M Coupe was a love-it-or-hate-it design, but its performance was universally praised. Nicknamed the “Clown Shoe” because of its unusual shooting brake shape, the M Coupe delivered raw, unfiltered driving pleasure. With its S52 or S54 inline-six engine (depending on the market and year), it became an underground hero among enthusiasts. It offered a unique blend of handling, speed, and practicality. The Z3 M Coupe broke the mold and became one of the most beloved niche sports cars in BMW history.
BMW E39 M5 (1998)
Often hailed as the greatest sports sedan ever made, the E39 M5 set a new benchmark for performance, refinement, and usability. Powered by a 4.9-liter V8 producing 394 horsepower, it combined supercar performance with the comfort of a luxury sedan. It had no turbochargers, no fancy electronics—just raw mechanical brilliance. The E39 M5 delivered exhilarating driving dynamics and remains a holy grail for collectors. It’s undoubtedly one of the best BMW cars of all time and redefined what a four-door sedan could be.
BMW i8 (2014)
The BMW i8 marked a turning point in automotive design and performance. As one of the first plug-in hybrid sports cars, the i8 combined a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with an electric motor to deliver thrilling performance while being environmentally conscious. Its futuristic design, butterfly doors, and lightweight carbon-fiber chassis made it a standout. The i8 proved that sustainable driving could still be exciting, paving the way for BMW’s electrification strategy. It was not just a car—it was a bold statement about the future.
BMW G80 M3 (2020)
The latest generation M3 may have sparked controversy with its bold grille design, but underneath lies one of the most technically advanced and powerful M3s ever built. With a twin-turbo inline-six engine, optional all-wheel drive, and a manual transmission still available, the G80 offers versatility like no M3 before it. It’s faster, more capable, and more refined than ever, embodying everything that makes a modern performance car great. It reflects how far BMW has come while staying true to its driving roots.
Conclusion
BMW’s impact on the automotive industry is undeniable. From pioneering lightweight racers in the 1930s to redefining luxury and performance in the modern era, the brand has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation. These ten cars didn’t just represent milestones in BMW’s timeline—they shaped the direction of the entire automotive world. Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast, a luxury car lover, or an electric vehicle fan, BMW has delivered a vehicle that left a lasting mark. Many of these machines are not just technological achievements but also the best BMW cars of all time, each contributing to the legacy of a brand built on passion and precision.
