European BMW Vs. American BMW: What’s the Difference?

If you have ever seen movies based in Europe or have visited Europe, you will notice that their BMWs are quite different than the ones we are accustomed to seeing in the states. This is for several reasons, usually having to do with different regulations and laws in their respective country.

If you’ve wondered what is the difference between American and European BMWs are, here’s what you need to know:

• American BMWs have larger bumpers because it is required by U.S. law.
• American BMWs have bigger airbags. Bigger airbags make it less likely that drivers and passengers get thrown through the windshields in the event of an accident.
• American BMWs don’t have small engines because gas is cheaper than in Europe. Thus, no real demand for a smaller size engine BMW.
• American BMWs have different ratings of headlights.
• American BMWs have softer suspensions.
• American BMWs don’t have rear fog lights, something that is actually required by law in Europe.
• European BMWs with small engines are considered a low cost option, so they are sold without the cool stuff, such as alloy wheels and sun roofs.
• European BMWs come with a first aid kit because it is required by German law.
• European BMWs allow you to open and close windows while doors are open.
• European BMWs are offered with electric windows and sunroofs as an extra cost, unlike the U.S. where most BMWs are already included with these features.
• Speed limiters are different. They are a bit higher for European models.

Although you’ve seen the BMW with the European license plate, it is most likely a U.S. model because as mentioned above, there are laws and regulations requiring said differences to be implemented.