This is related to my other question here (http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?t=1158341)

Would you say the BMW "stigma" still exists? Would it stop you buying one, or if you have one has it caused you any issues? Like having abuse hurled at you?

I'm probably over thinking it, but I can't decide whether to pull the trigger or not, and for some reason this is bothering me - especially with how things are financially at the moment; it's made people a bit bitter towards anyone seemingly having money (even though they aren't that pricey second hand especially the E46).

So just after some thoughts.. The weird thing is I did not think anything of it when I had my A3, but I never thought the stigma really applied to Audi for some reason.

Probably along the lines of a 325i M Sport (E90), probably 2006 reg, or an E46.

I know it's silly.. *sigh*

I had a convertible E46 M3 up until last month, never got a single bad comment about it, much the opposite in fact. The only negative comment was some bint saying she didn't like it, but nothing abusive or overly irritating. I got more stigma when I bought my classic Mini, people telling me it was a death trap and a rust bucket and I'd die in it very soon. Perhaps more so now it's got a VTEC in it

i dont think it should bother you to be honest. I used to be like that but the only person you are upsetting is yourself.

if you want to drive a bmw you drive a bmw and be proud of it, if you have worked hard and been able to afford it then thumbs up to you my friend and if anything thinks your a knob then keep your chin up and take it on the chin and know they are just jealous.

when i drive my bmw and people look at me as if im a knob for been in one i look at them and smile and think have a lovely day sir/madam and rock on my merry way

Definitely still exists amongst the masses (Non petrolheads)

I remember getting really annoyed when I moved into a new place, and my girlfriend commented on a car outside that belonged to one of the guys I was sharing with. She said that's a really nice car, he must be doing very well for himself. It was worth £2k max and just weeks before I took delivery of my new company car which didn't attract a single comment. I thought I was doing OK!

I don't know or care if the 'stigma' still exists. If someone I didn't know (or anyone I did know for that matter) didn't like my choice of car they can fk off.

I'm surprised anyone would consider not buying something they want because of a fear that some strangers might not like it. Very strange.

I've never owned a BMW in the past, however, I'm a fan of good, thoughtful engineering, so I may own one in the future ( as a daily ). Something like an E46 325i perhaps? Some decent ones now for £2500-4000.

Agree with this sentiment. Have been in and out of BMW ownership a few times and the only thing I noticed was an increased reluctance to let you out of a junction, but having moved up North again, where drivers are generally more polite, even that isn't noticeable anymore.

Certainly wouldn't stop me buying one and they're not the jealousy magnet you'd think. Used to park my old Fiat and bmw on a public road behind each other. It was the Barchetta that got keyed and vandalised twice.

A mate bought a used E91 a couple of years ago for the price of a new BOTR Golf.

His OH's grandad now refers to him as "the rich, posh kid with more money than sense".


So yes, I suspect BMWs will carry a stigma with the older generations.