I can't say that I would want to own any of today's BMWs/Mercs etc. in 10 years based on a lot of factors. Things like getting rid of dipsticks on BMWs makes me scratch my head... why would you not want to check oil levels?
I have a buddy who is a top notch independent mechanic. At least once a month he has a story about a customer who should of given a little thought to your question, but let themselves be swayed by all the hype of owning an out of warranty, high end German ride. They typically bought a 4-7 Y.O. five series BMW, or equal Mercedes sedan. They are tolerant of the repairs and maintenance that costs 2-5X as much as owning a more practical vehicle, until......... He ends up spending an hour or two on diagnostics, then has to inform the customer that it needs a six thousand dollar repair. Now the car is 8-10 years old, frequently still has a pretty hefty monthly payment, and it isn't going anywhere without a massive infusion of cash.
We have a good friend in this boat. She is a teacher with a $60K income and married to a recent immigrant, with a fairly low income. They have a 300 something or other sedan, and the Mercedes SUV. It's nothing for one of these POS to need a $2-3K repair, every year, and it's only a matter of time until one needs a lot more than that. But for her, it's all about the imaginary "prestige" of driving around with that badge on the hood. Whatever blows your skirt up, I guess?
