8 of the Most Interesting BMW Cars Ever Made
BMW, renowned for its innovative engineering and luxurious designs, has consistently rolled out an array of vehicles that have left indelible marks on the automotive landscape. From groundbreaking sports coupes to opulent sedans, here are eight of the most interesting BMW cars ever made.
1. BMW 507 (1956-1959) – This rare and beautiful roadster, powered by a V8 engine, stole the hearts of many with its graceful body lines and impressive performance. With only 252 units produced, it’s a coveted collector’s item.
2. BMW 2002 Turbo (1973-1975) – As Europe’s first turbocharged production car, the 2002 Turbo was a significant milestone for BMW. Its bold “turbo” graphics and forced induction powerplant made it an icon of 70s performance.
3. BMW M1 (1978-1981) – Co-developed with Lamborghini, the M1 was BMW’s first mid-engined model to go into production and boasted motorsport heritage, which translated to an illustrious racing career in the Procar Championship.
4. BMW E30 M3 (1986-1991) – Launched as a homologation special for Group A Touring car racing, the E30 M3 became famous for its distinctive flared wheel arches and being one of the most successful touring cars ever.
5. BMW Z8 (2000-2003) – Paying homage to the classic 507 with its retro-inspired styling, the Z8 housed a potent V8 engine and balanced performance with luxury—an instant and enduring classic.
6. BMW i8 (2014–2020) – As a plug-in hybrid sports car, the i8 showcased BMW’s commitment to sustainability without compromising on aesthetics. Its futuristic design language and eco-friendly technology marked an exciting evolution in car manufacturing.
7. BMW X5 Le Mans Concept (2000) – A unique concept vehicle that crammed a V12 engine from an LMR race car into an X5 body, creating a peculiar yet thrilling marriage of off-roader and race car performance.
8. BMW E39 M5 (1998-2003) – Often lauded as the best sports sedan of its era, the E39 M5 featured a sublime V8 engine and managed to perfectly blend comfort with staggering performance, establishing a benchmark for future super saloons.
Each of these cars demonstrates how BMW pushed boundaries and entered new realms of automotive design and performance—cementing their place in history as some of the most interesting vehicles ever crafted by the Bavarian manufacturer.