The bmw E12 automobile platform was the basis for the 1972 through 1981 bmw 5-Series automobiles and the first platform to bear the 5-Series name: the '5' denoting bmw's fifth 'New Class' platform. Designed as a replacement for the popular Neue Klasse (bmw New Class) mid-sized sedan, the E12 5-Series models were smaller than the large bmw E3 sedan but larger than the two-door 2002 models. The E12 was replaced by the bmw E28 5-Series in 1981, although production continued until 1984 in South Africa.
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The current bmw model line-up is split into what they call "Series", traditionally identified by a single digit - e.g. the 3 Series.
In 2004 bmw announced plans to make odd-numbered models sedans and estates or wagons (bmw calls its estates/wagons Touring models), while even-numbered models will be two-door coupes and cabriolets. This convention started informally in 1976 with the introduction of the 6 Series and later continued in 1989 with the 8 Series, but died off when the latter was discontinued in 1999. This practice was revived as the Z4 replaced the aging Z3 roadster in 2003 and continues as the new 6 Series augments the existing bmw 5 Series.
Coupe versions of the 3 Series sedans have always been named 3 Series vehicles, as well. The company had considered renaming future 2-door derivatives of the 3 Series as 4 Series cars, but this plan has reportedly been shelved.
The M letter was used prior to the shift to Series-named cars to designate special "Motorsport" models, beginning with the M1 supercar. Later the M letter was used as a prefix to top-of-the-range models which had received special treatment by the bmw Motorsport division. The first such car was the M535i of 1979. As these models started gaining popularity the Motorsport division was split into a separate company. bmw M GmbH now makes sporty models based on the production cars with very extensive chassis and engine upgrades. The M3 and M5 are based respectively on the 3 and 5 Series and are recognised by enthusiasts all over the world as truly excellent sports cars while retaining the practicality of the models they extend.
With the advent of the SUV, bmw also added the X5 - and in 2004 the X3 - to their model range to capitalise on this growing market. bmw calls its SUV models Sports Activity Vehicles. A possible future V Series will offer MPV practicality for large families, similar to the Renault Scenic.