| Gentlemen:
Why don't we first define the concept of "reliability" before we make any judgments on any car ? We can ask ourselves: what do we mean by a reliable car? Once we reach a common ground, then and-only then- it becomes apparent to us what a reliable car is/ought to be. Once accomplished, then we start to point our fingers at whatever deemed UNRELIABLE based upon pre astablished criteria. If we think this is a fair assessment we will to continue on reading this post otherwise we will minimize it and go on talking about our rims!
This is the way I may see it:
1. If what we mean by reliability: pouring gas only, change oil every 6,000 miles and drive a worry free BMW hence reliable; then BMW is NOT that reliable; and I mean it.
2. If what we mean by reliability: buying a German car without spending one cent for maintenance, Again BMW is NOT reliable.
3. If reliability means “GOOD CAR” whatever “good” means in this context, then BMW is RELATIVELY RELIABLE. Again you may not agree with me on what constitute a true reliable car thus BMW is relative in form and content. As such it all depends on what we want out of our car; it is a matter of our personal judgments and/or expectations; that is to say BMW at its best.
Furthermore, we can and will spend hours perhaps months writing/reading posts without reaching a common ground and/or agreement.
4. For me? Reliability means superb handling, cornering, and unsurpassed performance and FUN to drive. But there is a cost associated with it, BMWs do NOT come cheap.
Thus it happened that I found what I wanted in a car and it is a Bimmer, to be sure it is a green one (not pink/yellow/white or purple) 528I. Do I have a bad taste in car or color? perhaps to some and not to others. Again it is all relative.
Now just because the other guy happens to fall in love with his “Chevy Nova” and called it every evening his heart beat of America be assured I am not going to bash him. And if I do shame on me!!
Regards
billb | 
