Whats the best way to make a rear wheel drive car work in the snow (BMW)?

-As high a gear as possible and gentle acceleration.



Once upon a time front wheel drives were rare, how do all those who say sandbags and snow chains are the only way think people coped then?Rear wheel drive vehicles drive poorly in the snow because all the weight is placed disproportionately on the front wheels (from the engine). Counter balance by placing sand bags, weights, rocks, or anything heavy in the trunk; you'll need at least a couple hundred pounds and preferably more. It will hurt your gas mileage, but it will get you where you're going.
SNOW TIRES !!! every vehicle has four contact points with the road, what these consist of makes the biggest difference. Yes AWD makes the car accelerate faster in snow, does nothing for stopping and steering. Your BMW comes with traction and stability control, maximizing your traction with winter tires will make it perfectly fine to drive in the winter.

Look at Bridgestone Blizzaks, Michelin x-Ice, Nokian HAKKAPELIITTA.
It's not the car, it's the driver. I have lived in snow country most of my life, from the midwest USA to the pacific northwest to Alaska and have owned mostly rear-wheel drive cars. There is no magic formula to winter driving. You just make sure your car is equipped with a good set of winter tires, and SLOW DOWN!



You cannot drive on snow and ice at the same speeds you drive on bare pavement, and expect to survive.
The trick is to select second gear and slowly lift the clutch until you feel the bite then gentle acceleration until you get the grip. Alternativly you can place weight in the boot to give you grip.
Snow tyres is the only way, they make a huge difference in traction when in snow.
Carry a couple of bags of sand in the boot if you can't afford snow tyres.
There is no real way.



4WD you really need pal.



At worst, front wheel drive.
Chains on the wheels

A lot of torque