The dream of every avid motorist is to own a car that not only transports them, but one that is fast, powerful and at the same time can withstand the tests of time and relentless mileage. Well, it turns out that some German engineering creations have exceeded all expectations, becoming truly killer cars on the road. The Carbuzz publication has compiled a curious list of models that, with proper maintenance, can cover over 500,000 kilometers without giving the slightest cause for concern.
The list, prepared by automotive experts, focuses on some of the most iconic German cars produced from the 1980s to the beginning of the second decade of the new one. These are vehicles that prove that the "made in Germany" stamp is not just a label, but a guarantee of exceptional durability. According to the study, eight such cars have the potential to cover an impressive 500,000 kilometers.
At the heart of this remarkable ranking are legends such as the BMW M5 (E39), produced between 1998 and 2003. This model is considered one of the last titans of the Bavarian brand's “mechanical era“. With its simple but extremely robust design, the "sharpened fifth series" of the E39 generation is a benchmark for reliability and continues to be highly regarded by connoisseurs.
Immediately ahead of the M5 (E39) are two more classics that have earned their place in the pantheon of durability. One is the iconic Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG (R129) (1989-2001), especially the versions equipped with a naturally aspirated 7.3-liter V12 engine. This engine, as experts say, is considered one of the most indestructible units ever to come out of the Stuttgart factories.
The durability of the fifth generation Volkswagen Golf (2004-2009) is no less impressive. The version with a 3.2-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine is a real gem – its engine has been declared by experts as the most reliable in its class, proving that reliability is not a privilege only of the luxury segment.
Further down the list we see two more iconic sports models that skillfully combine adrenaline with remarkable durability. These are the BMW M3 (E46) (2000-2006) and the elegant Porsche Boxster S (987) (2004-2012). Both models receive high marks, as they achieve a perfect balance between pure-bred sports spirit and solid, long-term durability.
However, the top three is reserved for the truly great
The Porsche 911 Carrera (997) (2005-2012) and the second generation Audi TT (8J) (2008-2015) find their place there. Both sports cars are distinguished by extremely reliable engines - both naturally aspirated and turbocharged. With regular and meticulous maintenance, these machines are designed to withstand time and mileage.
And here is the gold medalist! The absolute first place goes to the unsurpassed Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), produced in the period 1984-1995. This car is not accidentally called the “engineering standard of its time“. Specifically, the versions with an inline six-cylinder engine, produced before 1993, are unanimously recognized as the pinnacle of reliability among all German cars in recent decades. This is the car that can truly be passed down from generation to generation.
Ultimately, experts are categorical: the longevity of these German masterpieces is not a pure coincidence, but a direct result of careful maintenance. Timely and correct replacement of consumables and attention to detail are the key. As hundreds of thousands of kilometers of real-world mileage show, if the necessary care is applied, these vehicles can serve faithfully and devotedly for decades.