BMW's are expensive to maintain, period. Regardless of the year/model. Parts are expensive and often only available from the dealer or licensed service department. Stupid shit breaks often, mostly mechanical stuff that is not attached to the motor. Window motors, airbag sensors, steering column motors, seat motors, antennas... etc. Something as simple as the OEM battery will run you in excess of $140. If you've always wanted a BMW and can afford to take it in the shorts on maintenance, buy one. I had an '00 3 series, had to have some stuff fixed under warranty when I owned it. I personally wouldn't reccommend buying anything out of warranty if you don't have money to burn. I would love to have an E30 M3 though-

If you do buy one, take it to Jeff @ Rennen Imports for maintenance, repairs or performance crap. He's about half the price of the dealer and has more knowledge and experience than most if not all of their techs.