BMWs are synonymous with performance and prestige, but how reliable are they? Longevity is not often considered a prominent characteristic in performance automobiles; however, certain BMW models stand out, producing unexpected results in this area.
Some enthusiasts may find the high price of a new BMW prohibitively expensive; therefore, they may consider purchasing a used vehicle as an alternative.
This is where the dependability and lifespan of specific models are important. With a back catalog spanning over a century, it may be difficult to determine which BMW models reach that sweet spot.
Our selection of the 10 Highest-Ranking BMW models and extraordinary levels of dependability will assist consumers on a quest for dependable, high-end performance.
The Top 10 Highest-Ranking BMW Models
We chose 10 Highest-Ranking BMW Models from the used market sector that have demonstrated continuous durability throughout their history and are still feasible options for drivers seeking the swagger of a BMW but without the funds for a new model.
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1. 1978 BMW M1
When it comes to racing, the typical method is to alter a production model to make it fast and durable enough to withstand the rigors of racing in a specific class.
BMW, on the other hand, sought to design a race car that they could later adapt to conform with road car standards and regulations.
Porsche accomplished the same thing over two decades later, in 1996, when they designed the 911 GT1 as a true race vehicle for the road, largely based on the 993-generation Porsche 911.
The 911 GT1 was a dominant racing car from the start, while BMW’s first mid-engined vehicle barely made it into production and onto the race track.
Initially, the intention was for Lamborghini to manage the assembly process because BMW had no experience building a supercar.
However, as the 1970s came to a conclusion, Lamborghini ran into financial difficulties, forcing BMW to abandon its initial plans and build the car in Munich instead.
2. 2017 B58 BMW X3
The BMW X3 is a tiny premium SUV that is both sporty and practical. It has a smooth ride, a large interior, and cutting-edge technology features.
Its dependability is due to a number of elements, including its sturdy construction, modern engineering, and the manufacturer’s meticulous attention to detail.
The strong B58 inline-six engine, which is known for its durability, provides power.
3. 2019 BMW M4 CS.
However, the CS (Club Sport) comes with a set of sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, just like the GTS, and the carbon fiber hood is also identical.
It also has some M4 Competition Package DNA because it has the same chassis layout, and the two versions have lower and stronger springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars.
With 454 horsepower on tap, the M4 CS is over 40 horsepower shy of the GTS’ power output, but what it lacks in raw power it makes up for in the way it drives.
It feels much more connected, and while the power advantage over an M4 Competition is negligible (just 10 horsepower and 37 pound-feet of torque), the louder, meatier exhaust note will undoubtedly be audible.
The M4 CS is our vote for the greatest BMW model out of the M4 range since it’s not as extreme as the GTS but it’s poised enough to make it enjoyable at speed without hurting your back in the process, though your bank account will undoubtedly take a blow given the $103,500 MSRP.
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4. 1936 BMW 328
However, the 328 not only outperformed the marque’s other goods and competitors in the sports car industry, but it also attempted to defeat the large supercharged sports cars of the 1960s and won if the circuit was twisty enough to allow it.
With an excellent chassis and a dry weight of approximately 1,720 pounds in street trim (some race teams reduced that weight to 1,322 pounds by removing the fenders and headlights), the 328 belied the unimpressive 80 horsepower output of its 2.0-liter M328 straight-six engine.
The original roadster, designed by Peter Szymanowski, was one of the first BMWs to have the now-iconic twin kidney grille, albeit in a more elongated shape.
From 1936 to 1940, the 328 was the best car in the 2.0-liter class in any sports car race, winning famous events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Mille Miglia in Italy.
5. 2007 E65 BMW 7 Series.
Moving on to another very reliable BMW model, we now look at the E65 BMW 7 Series, which has earned a spot in the top ten most dependable BMW models. This luxury car provides the performance, comfort, and longevity that BMW lovers desire.
Some essential elements that make the 2007 E65 BMW 7 Series a reliable choice include powerful engine options, an innovative suspension system, a premium interior, and a few advanced driver aid systems that weren’t standard at the the time.
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6. 1991 BMW M3 Sport Evolution
BMW was on the back foot when the Group A rules for European sedan racing were implemented in 1982, and privateers raced to the scene with the obsolete 528i (E28).
While the Jaguar team’s poor reliability record ultimately cost them the ETCC title, BMW realized the need for a new car and reinstated the 635 CSi (E24), a Group 2-spec car that had been used temporarily between 1980 and 1981.
When the E24 became obsolete in 1985, BMW developed a more compact replacement that would follow in the footsteps of the E21.
The end result was the first BMW 3 Series, known internally as the E30. The Group A race car appeared in 1987, one year after the introduction of the road car, and forever altered sedan racing.
The 1986 M3 was only rated at 192 horsepower from its 2.-liter S14 inline-six, while the 1990 Sport Evolution produced 235 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 177 pound-feet at 4,750.
Only 600 units were ever produced, each with larger wings, bumpers, and fender flares that look similar to the bone.
Despite being slow by today’s standards, the original M3 remains one of the best BMW automobiles, with some arguing that it is the best BMW period.
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7. 1979 BMW M535i.
The M535i was the fastest variation of the original 5-Series series. The M535i, powered by a detuned version of the mid-engine M1’s “M88” inline-six-cylinder engine and a manual transmission, produced 210 horsepower when new, just 63 horsepower less than the M1.
The M-approved package is complete with typical 1970s flares and bumpers, as well as more rigid suspension.
Unfortunately, we never had the opportunity to experience the E12 in the United States, and to make matters worse, the succeeding E28-generation M535i likewise avoided the North American market.
8. 2011 N52 BMW 3 Series.
The 2011 N52 BMW 3 Series is largely regarded as a dependable model, a feeling echoed by the automobile on our list.
It is favored for its high build quality and reliable performance. One of the primary aspects contributing to its dependability is the N52 engine, which is noted for its endurance and longevity.
This naturally aspirated inline-six engine produces smooth power and has proven to be extremely reliable throughout the years.
The BMW 3 Series sports a well-engineered chassis and suspension system, resulting in a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience without sacrificing dependability.
The interior is equally well-crafted, with high-quality materials and a perfect fit and finish. With proper maintenance and care, this model may provide owners with many years of trouble-free driving enjoyment, making it an excellent choice for people looking for a dependable luxury vehicle.
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9. 1992 BMW 850CSi
Call it ‘overweight’,’sedated’, or ‘over-complicated’, but the original 8-Series, with its elegant lines and pop-up headlights, is still a work of art three decades later.
This is not the best BMW to spend your money on because many things may and do go wrong, but this coupe is driven by the S70B56 5.6-liter V-12, a behemoth capable of 375 horsepower at 5,300 rpm. Fewer cars can help you appear cooler.
10. 2005 BMW M3 CSL.
Sure, the DCT transmission—a technology still in its infancy in the early 2000s—wasn’t the best, but the E46 M3 CSL is the best E46 M3 and one of the best BMWs of the decade.
Only 1,383 of these lightweight (by 242 pounds compared to a standard E46 M3) sports coupes were produced, and all have the 360 horsepower variation of the S54B32 in-line six-cylinder engine. We know we would like one!
