any reliable BMW model or engine that I should look for before buying? Im actually not a fan of any cars besides honda and toyota. But is there any reliable BMW model or modern engines that will last long if it is taken care propery?
No, because most people can't or won't afford the outrageous prices it takes to keep them running.
For modern BMWs, I would say no cause of expensive repairs. The 1980s BMWs are decent, but you have to pay a good amount for repairs due to age.
The N52 inline 6 engine itself is relatively reliable. It just cost an arm, leg and torso to maintain. Everything surrounding the engine is made of plastic, so they cost so much to maintain in both parts and labor.
The biggest and most expensive problem with many of their engines was the timing chain and plastic timing guides. Plastic just disintegrates and over time. I don’t think it was as big a problem in the N52, but double check that.
An earlier version of the inline 6 also had problems with a nut or bolt coming loose in a main part of the engine, causing catastrophe. Not sure which engine that was.
I learned to drive with a 1981 Mercedes 280E and while it's definitely not a car I would ever drive again but if I had to pick between that and a new Mercedes then definitely the 280E. The same goes with BMW; the new ones are extremely over-engineered and cost so much to maintain or repair if needed that I just won't consider them a good choice for long term use. With old ones like the 280E example parts are not as readily available as newer models so they're more expensive and harder to find and especially if you aren't a DIY person add the labor cost. So given these stick with Toyota and Honda and you'll be very happy that you did.
Some say the B58 motor is reliable. It’s only been ~5 years so it is hard to tell long term. This is the one used in the BMW Supra, I mean the Toyota Supra.
There's a diesel guy in the UK (don't know if I can link to his website) and he recommends the diesel inline 6 BMW 2.5 TD/TDS found in the BMW 325/525. Apparently it had a reliable Bosch VP37 fuel injection pump as well.
My brother financed a brand new BMW and it broke down within 3 months. I didn't even ask him what the problem was. Then he financed a Mercedes with a 3L engine and 350 bhp and that broke down as well.
But then my brother had no respect for anything so he probably did within a few months what most BMW/Mercedes drivers would do within a year or so.
