Quote:
Originally Posted by Amaru
For my money the e46 M3 is the best car BMW has ever made, and one of the best cars of the 21st century. Incredible engine, beautiful and ageless body style, and practical for most day-to-day needs.
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That would probably be the E39 M5.
Why not an E39 M5? V8 and probably a more analog experience than the E46 M or the E90 M. Plus 4 doors which is pretty useful if you plan to keep the car long-term and commands more respect in the parking lots, etc. (if that's your thing). Same maintenance issues, of course, but if you want to get an M car, you gotta pay to play. Or just buy a E46 ZHP (the last DIY-friendly 3-series) if you want to drive something that just "works".
One last thing, just because you can afford a BMW (any BMW) doesn't mean that you can afford to drive one. At the very minimum, you should be prepared to turn your own wrenches. Buy a good set of Torx wrenches, setup a laptop and load it with the appropriate diagnostic software, find some good part suppliers, and read BMW forums. For a late model BMW with fewer OEM part suppliers, set aside $400-500/month for repairs and maintenance. Good luck.