As the name BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke, meaning Bavarian Motor Works) suggests, the appeal of BMW cars lies, above all, in their engines. Not only the straight-six engines, described as smooth as silk, but also the four-cylinder and V8 power units crafted by BMW possess an unparalleled charm. Here, motor journalist Fumio Ogawa, who feels the allure of BMW engines particularly in older models, introduces his top 10 classic BMWs he wants to drive now.

Where does BMW's excellence lie? Of course, there are many aspects, but I believe the greatest is the engine. That's what I think.

Naturally, the handling is superb, and the latest 2 Series Gran Coupé offers such a wonderful sense of balance that it evokes the same excitement I felt with the 3 Series years ago.

The feeling that the engine is amazing is especially strong when driving older models. Recently, I had the opportunity to drive the nostalgic "Z1" (1989) in Portugal. Experiencing its 2.5-liter six-cylinder engine again after so long, I was thrilled by how wonderful it was!

First, it revs beautifully. A light press of the accelerator pedal sends it soaring towards the red zone. On the other hand, it offers ample torque from low RPMs, making it easy to handle whether with a manual or automatic transmission.

With the six-cylinder "3.0CSL" (1971) or the V8 "840Ci," you'll likely be equally impressed by the engine. While the brakes might feel weak by today's standards, and the steering effort surprisingly heavy, the engine is superb. And perhaps the light body contributes to its appeal.

Therefore, if you find a BMW model from the past that appeals to you, I believe you can still find considerable happiness in owning it today. Given BMW's wide range of models, and acknowledging that preferences vary, I have dared to select my personal top 10.

A model that embodies BMW's essence of elegance, luxury, and sportiness. Its 3003cc inline-six engine is a joy. The "3.0CSL," with its lighter body and more power, is sportier but requires considerable steering effort.

For those of a certain generation, BMW means this car. Even the four-cylinder models offer ample torque, remain easy to drive today, and boast excellent balance. It feels like a 3 Series condensed. The styling is also captivating.

This is the most recent model among the BMWs featured here. The reason is that you can enjoy BMW's superb engine, nimble handling, and the pleasure of full open-air driving at an accessible used car price. Initially offered with a four-cylinder engine, inline-six models were introduced later. Personally, I think the four-cylinder is perfectly adequate.

The first-generation 8 Series was a coupe from a period when BMW aimed to compete on styling, like its silhouette, rather than relying solely on the iconic kidney grille. The V12 is a magnificent achievement. Even the V8 is truly impressive. Not all BMWs are six-cylinders.

Its slightly nostalgic styling, developed with BMW's Designworks in California, has not aged. The 4941cc V8 engine, a torque monster, might lack sharpness, but driving it would certainly make a statement.

The first-generation 5 Series, introduced three years before the 3 Series, was the epitome of refinement. It offered excellent handling, balanced styling, and a reasonably luxurious interior. The original measured 4.6 meters in length and 1.7 meters in width, making it a manageable size for Japanese city streets. The fact that well-maintained examples can still be found is a bonus.

BMW's appeal sometimes lies in its creation of experimental sports models like this. A compact, 3.9-meter-long two-seater with an FRP body, it offers an incredible sense of freedom when the soft top is down and the vertically sliding doors are open. The feel of its 2494cc inline-six engine is excellent, and it remains a car I highly recommend today.

The concept of pushing the 3 Series' potential to its limits with motorsports in mind is thrilling. Subsequent generations have evolved, with the current model resembling a sedan-shaped race car. Experiencing the agility of the first generation with its 2302cc four-cylinder engine today would be worthwhile. However, finding a well-maintained example might prove challenging.

With its high quality, attractive styling centered on the front face, and nimble performance, it possessed a unique individuality. Even today, seeing one on the street (they are occasionally driven) – its compact 4.3-meter body – I think of it as an ideal sporty sedan. If you can find a six-cylinder model (like the 323i), that would be the one to get.

The debut of the first generation was a fresh surprise. Even driving it today, you realize what a superb car it is. The smoothness of the 3430cc inline-six engine in the "635CSi" is remarkable. The "M635CSi," equipped with a 3453cc six-cylinder engine (upgraded from 277ps to 286ps) shared with the sports racing car "M1," is a dream car.