24 German Sports Cars With Solid Reliability

German vehicles get a lot of slack for being unreliable. But let’s be honest folks. Reliability is relative. The most affordable, cheap, and easy-to-maintain vehicle could be a nightmare for an irresponsible owner.

Here’s the truth. German engineering is regarded as the best in the world. And even though they are reliable, they are also expensive to fix compared to other automobiles. Porsche, BMW, Audi, and VW all have one thing in common. They feature complex engineering that often requires intensive labor. That alone gives them the ‘bad apple’ stereotype in the automotive world.

It’s important to understand that most German vehicles stand for automotive perfection—an unmatched driving experience and comfort.

For that reason, it would be unfair to gauge German reliability based on fuel economy or the affordability of parts only. In the same way, you wouldn’t race a base-model Corolla with a Porsche 911— it’s just not fair.  

With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the best and most reliable German cars based on their performance, manufacturing quality, driving experience, longevity, and owner reviews.

2007 BMW Z4

The BMW Z4 roadster was launched in 2002 and went into production for six years to 2008. This sports coupe came in two variants, the E85 Convertible and the E86 Coupe, and featured a 3-liter in-line six engine that was good for between 215 hp and 255 hp.

The 2007 BMW Z4 model year is considered the zestier of the bunch. Behind the wheel, it offered close to excellent handling, acceleration, and braking. It shines the most on long, windy roads, where the driver can enjoy the orchestra of sounds from the exhaust. 

The 2007 BMW Z4 has an average repair cost of about $1,200. The estimated maintenance cost for the first 10 years is between $10,000 to $12,000. 

2007 Mercedes-Benz SL

The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class debuted in 1954. Ever since, it’s been one of the automakers’ most performance-admired models. The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL came with four engine variants: a 382 hp 5-liter V8, a 510 hp 5.5-liter supercharged V8, a 510 hp V12, and a 604 hp 6-liter V12.

For that, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is crazy fast and extremely powerful behind the wheel. Despite the love the SL-Series gets from heavy-footers, it currently retails for between $13,000 and $25,000 – a bargain for exotic performance car enthusiasts.

The average yearly maintenance cost for this German performance-luxury car is about $1,000, and the estimated maintenance cost for the first 10 years is about $12,000.

2014 Audi TT

The 2014 Audi TT is undoubtedly stylish, both on the exterior and interior. It’s also a lot of fun behind the wheel, even though its performance figures aren’t anywhere near those of its top competitors.

Despite industry nicknames like the ‘Poor man’s R8’ or the ‘Hairdresser’s car,” the 2014 Audi TT is one of the most reliable vehicles from its region of manufacture. Under the hood, it runs a smaller 2-liter 4cylinder engine that is good for 211 hp.

A 2024 UK survey by WhatCar reported that the 2014 Audi TT had a 98% reliability score based on findings on the used-car market.

2015 BMW M235i

You’ve probably heard of the industry-wide joke that BMWs’ natural habitat is on a flatbed. Well, sorry, BMW fanboys, but BMWs aren’t the most reliable cars in the world. 

Still, the 2015 BMW M235i model was a release that goes against the stereotype. Owner reviews from BMW forums claim the M235i’s N55 engine (turbocharged 3-liter i6 good for 322 hp) is quite reliable, completing 150,000 miles without any major repairs.

2015 Porsche 911

It goes without saying that the Porsche 911 is one of the most iconic and best-selling cars in the world. That wouldn’t be the case if it had reliability issues.

The 2015 Porsche 911 came in various trims, Carrera, GT3, Targa, and Turbo, that were powered by three engine variations, including the 350 hp 3.4-liter flat six, 475 hp 3.8-liter flat six, and the 560 hp 3.8-liter turbo flat-six.

The 2015 Porsche 911 has an average yearly maintenance of about $1,000 and a 10-year maintenance cost of between $15,000 and $18,000.

2017 Audi S6

When it came out, the Audi S6 was one of the hottest and most refined sports sedans in the automotive market. It featured a variation of three powerful engines: a twin-turbo V8, a turbo inline-4, and a supercharged V6.

To date, the 2017 Audi S6 is still sought after for its timeless, stylish design and the excitement it offers behind the wheel.

According to owner reviews, the C7 Audi platform is reliable. However, it’s important to note that the S6 can be a bit pricier when it comes to maintenance replacement costs for little things like the brake rotors. All in all, the 2017 Audi S6 annual maintenance costs are about $1,000.

2016 BMW M550i

The 5 Series BMW has been on the road for quite some time. Although primarily an executive sports sedan, it has a line of performance and touring variants. The 2016 5 Series featured the following engine variations: a base 240 hp turbocharged 2-liter I4 and a twin-turbo 560 hp 4.4-liter V8 common in the M550i and the M5.

Additionally, the 2016 BMW M550i received high crash test scores from IIHS (Insurance Institute for High Safety). Its average yearly maintenance cost is about $800, and it costs between $19,000 and $23,000 in the used car market.

2017 Audi RS7

We all know the 2017 Audi RS7 as an aggressive 605 horsepower monster. And for that, not many people would expect it to be reliable. But frankly speaking, what’s the point of having a powerful powertrain if it breaks down frequently?

Well, under the hood, the 2017 Audi RS7 packs a twin-turbo 4-liter V8 engine. It’ll bolt from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds. Let’s not forget the harmonious exhaust note when you go harm on the throttle.

The 2017 Audi RS7 averagely costs about $1,200 annually in repairs. Its ten-year maintenance costs are below $10,000, at about $9,800. A well-maintained model in the used car market costs about $65,000.

2017 BMW M240i

The 2 Series BMW is simply a compact 2-door version of the 4-door 1 Series. The 2017 BMW 2 Series came in two variations: the convertible and coupe. The 2017 BMW M240i is a performance variable and packs a turbocharged 3-liter i6 that is good for 355 hp.

According to owner reviews, the 2017 BMW M240i is amazing, reliable, and a blast to drive in the convertible variant. The annual maintenance cost is about $900. New owners are advised to keep a little extra for tires—once it gets going, it can be difficult to let go of the throttle.

2017 BMW 440i xDrive

Like the BMW 2-Series, the 4 Series is a spin-off by the Bavarian automaker of the 3-series BMW. The 2017 BMW 4 Series welcomed two engine variants: a turbocharged 248 hp 2-liter 4cylinder engine (430i) and a 320 hp turbocharged 3-liter I6 engine (440i).

The 2017 BMW 440i xDrive is highly reliable, considering its performance genes. Its average annual maintenance cost is $1,200. Still, potential owners in the used car market need to be watchful of a few things. There have been some reports of issues with its fuel system and airbags.

2019 Porsche 911

When the world feasted its eyes on the 2019 Prosche 911, it felt like an evolution of its predecessor. Make no mistake, it is in every form: a new sports car. It’s also much bigger and bolder, and best of all (for speed enthusiasts) – it was more potent!

Under the hood, it packed a 502 hp 4-liter flat-six engine and could bolt from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds (top speed 192 mph). Its annual maintenance cost is about $1,100 (ten-year maintenance cost of  $18,000).

There have been three minor recalls on the 2019 Porsche 911, according to Consumer Reports. The screw connection on the rear axle upper control arm could be loose on some units.

2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC might be a little lazier behind the wheel than its competitors, but the smallest roadster under the three-pointed star’s marque came with a basketful of goodies (compared to its predecessors).

If you were interested in getting a laid-back cruiser for casual drives, the standard 241 hp variant would suit your needs. But if you were looking to conquer the mountain passes with some extra grunt, the twin-turbo V6 variant capable of 385 hp was a favorable option.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC has aged well and is still a show-stopper on the streets. It’s not a lemon, but it’s not as good either. The average price range on the used-car market is between $48,000 and $64,000.

2019 Porsche Boxster

It’s easy to confuse the 2019 Porsche Boxster for a laid-back convertible. The truth is, it’s a purebred sports car from Stuttgart, Germany. That’s not all; it features a mid-mounted engine, which is always synonymous with superb weight balance.

Under the hood is a 2-liter turbocharged engine delivering 300 hp. Add a six-speed gearbox, and most of its competition will be dotted on the rearview mirror once you hit the throttle. The 2019 Porsche Boxster could do 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

Other than a recall due to a possible fuel leak, the 2019 Porsche Boxster is a great-looking car with awesome reliability.

2019 BMW 4 Series

When it came out, the 2019 BMW 4 Series received a lot of props for continuing to offer that joyous thrill and sharp handling we’ve loved in BMW performance cars.

Offered in convertible and coupe variants, the 2019 4 Series BMW features a variety of engine setups, including the base turbocharged 2-liter 4cylinder (430i) and the more aggressive turbocharged six-cylinder engine in the 440i. But the most potent on the lineup is the turbo-six M4, which is good for 425 hp.

According to independent reviewers, the 2019 BMW 4 Series scores 83 out of 100 for reliability (even though there have been three recalls on this model).

2019 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe is undeniably a classic. It’ll live on through the years as a good-looking compact premium-styled coupe. Under the hood, it packs a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine good for 255 hp.

While most performance enthusiasts feel the BMW 3-Series offers more behind the wheel, the 2019 C-Class’s bespoke suspension setup significantly improved its performance.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe retails between $40,000 and $80,000 in the used car market. According to J.D. Power, it scores 3 out of 5 for reliability.

2019 Porsche Cayman

If you are looking for an entry-level Porsche that offers balance, fun, performance, and feedback, you’ll find a happy home with the 2019 Porsche Cayman. Like the Boxster, it has a turbo 4-cylinder engine stuffed right behind the two-seater cockpit.

While purists feel the flat-fours were blasphemous in Porshe-ville (we all miss the flat-six), get behind the wheel of the 2019 Porsche Cayman, and you’ll quickly love how torquey and peppy this 2-liter engine is. Add that to its PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management), and you’ll be gliding through the mountain roads with a grin on your face.

Overall, the 2019 Porsche Cayman is reliable, and it still looks fantastic on the road.

2019 Audi A5

If you are yearning for your bad boy/girl years or simply looking to extend that phase for a little longer, the 2019 Audi A5 is a favorable choice. Two things stand out about this model: its gusty turbo and close-to-perfect handling.

The winning combo will always be a mashup of engine power and superb suspension, which the 2019 Audi A5 thrives on with its turbocharged 2-liter engine and sports-tuned suspension. With that, it delivered 252 hp thanks to a snappy seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Still, the 2019 Audi A5 missed one core ingredient—a manual transmission. J.D. Power ranked this bad boy at 3.5 out of 5 for reliability. Owners got a 4-year (50,000-mile) warranty on the brand-new A5.

2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe

If the C-Class Coupe felt a little crampier and lagging behind the wheel, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is a boss move to level up. It’s elegantly styled and graceful on the road, with a ton of tech to enjoy on the interior.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is by no means a scaled-down S-Class. A turbocharged 4-cylinder comes standard, but for more grunt, the twin-turbo V6 is the ultimate choice.

For performance lovers, this E-Class feels more inclined to comfort than power. Also, the 4-cylinder variant feels feeble when pushed to the limit.

BMW E46 3 Series

The BMW 3 Series E46 first drove down American streets in 1999, and ever since it’s been the most successful (especially the 3i8i). It’s also the least powerful, but with that, owners get affordability, fuel efficiency, and a low maintenance cost compared to other models from the marque.

Compared to its predecessor, the E46 offered improved comfort, a better suspension system, and increased balance and comfort driving down the road. Even with meager performance, the E46 318i came with automatic stability control and ABS, which was a rarity in its class.

2019 BMW 2 Series

The BMW 2 Series tops the list of the most prevalent BMW models. Forget about its size; behind the wheel, it offers enough thrill to get you hooked. The base model 230i featured a turbo 2-liter 4-cylinder good for 248 hp.

If you wanted more grunt on the road, the M240i was a favorable option. It came with a turbocharged 6-cylinder engine (eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission). If that didn’t startle your neck hair, you could opt for the ultimate runner, the 405 hp M2 Competition, which could bolt from 0 to 60 mph in 4 seconds.

The 2019 BMW 2 Series is quite reliable and ranks well compared to most small luxury cars in its segment. Owners love its 4-cylinder variant for its snappy performance and good gas mileage.

2019 Mercedes-Benz SL

There’s a reason the Mercedes-Benz SL has an illustrious history—it’s always offered a refined driving experience. The SL lineup is a luxury line cruiser that won’t hesitate to gobble up the asphalt under throttle instruction.

The base variant of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL is a twin-turbo V6 good for 362 hp. Turn up the heat one step, and you’ll land on the SL55 powered by a twin-turbo V8 good for 449 hp. For maximum thrill behind the wheel, you can pick the AMG model that’ll bolt from 0 to 60 mph in 4 seconds.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL scores highly in reliability. It was a good idea, and for that, it never gets old, even with updates. This larger GT car has a 4.6 rating, according to Kelly Blue Book.

2019 BMW 8 Series

Smaller displacement might be synonymous with reliability, but the 2019 BMW 8 Series goes against that school of thought. Consumers didn’t get a chance to get a smaller engine for this model and had to opt for the 523 hp twin-turbo V8 – a good thing for performance enthusiasts.

Thanks to its imposing figure, the 2019 BMW 8 Series offered a commendable ride experience with sharp handling. Add that to a bounty of tech features, and it’s a car you’d hate to miss on your German car lineup.

The 2019 BMW 8 Series is an excellent old-school grand tourer with perfect handling and a top-of-the-range infotainment system.

2020 Audi S3 Premium

The 2020 Audi S3 Premium gets high points for having a mix of top-notch performance, luxury, and driving experience. You’ll love it for its zesty acceleration, superior build quality, and, as expected from the German automaker, a refined infotainment system.

Under the hood, it packs a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder delivering 288 hp. It comes standard with an automatic 7-speed transmission (sorry, no manual in this model). It’ll bolt effortlessly from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds.

On the downside, it’s thirstier than the A3, and you’ll have to squeeze in on the rear seat to fit well.

2020 BMW 5 Series

There have been more than 8 million 5 Series BMWs sold since they began production in 1975, and the secret to this model’s success is stuffing it with tech but not compromising performance. The 2020 BMW 5 Series uses the same old recipe.

The 2020 winning combo was a luxurious and roomy cabin, a host of optional tech features, and a variety of powertrains to choose from. This 5-Series doesn’t drive like a sports model from BMW, but it retains its marque’s reputation for luxury and comfortability.

Performance enthusiasts will hate it for prioritizing comfort over performance and for charging a little bit more for the good packages. All in all, the 2020 BMW 5 Series retains the good reputation of its predecessors.