History

Munich-based Bavarian Motor Works established itself in the early 1910s as an aircraft and motorcycle-engine manufacturer, but it wasn't until 1928 that production began on the first BMW car, the Dixi. BMW's best-known pre-World War II vehicle was the two-seat Type 328 roadster with its cutaway doors, while postwar BMWs, such as the 507, went on to win several racing, rallying and hillclimb victories. In 1974, BMW of North America was established and the yuppies of the '70s and '80s, who coveted both sports and luxury cars, became loyal Bimmer owners. As of the early 21st century, BMW has become the standard for performance and luxury in most of the "over $30,000" segments. Wild popularity among moneyed American buyers has prompted the company to expand the lineup to include several roadsters and the X5 SUV (with an X3 and X7 to follow).

New for 2006 :
The 2006 BMW M5 debuts a new 500-horsepower 5.0-liter V10 engine, the first V10 in a road-going BMW, and a new seven-speed SMG transmission which allows the driver to shift with either the lever in the console or with paddles behind the steering wheel. Compared to the previous generation SMG, shifts are 20 percent faster and Drivelogic allows the driver to select from seven different programs to change the shifting characteristics. Other features include M Variable Differential Lock; M Version electronically-controlled suspension; special steering system that is quicker than 5-Series steering; largest and most powerful brakes ever offered on a BMW; 19-inch alloy wheels, M-calibrated Dynamic Stability Control; MDrive menu for the iDrive system; M5 updates to bumpers, rocker panels, front spoiler, trunk lid, and exterior trim; Merino leather upholstery; heated M sport seats; and aluminum or wood interior trim.