[scotchnrocks]

Be very careful with the 3-series BMW's from the years you are looking at. They have a thin subframe that is prone to fatigue cracking with a lot of mileage and will cost a few grand to have welded up and reinforced. Make sure this has been taken care of if you find one that you like. Google "e46 subframe cracks" or similar if you want more info.

Regarding maintenance, BMW parts aren't expensive it is the labor that gets you. They are very well built and easy to work on in my experience, but if you have to pay for stuff it can be expensive. I've owned two BMW's and have found them to be very reliable cars.