[rbryantaz]

Are you a mechanic?

I am almost a mechanic and have been able to do anything on my BMWs including my e70 4.8i engine swap...

If I had only 4k I would probably look for a low mileage e46 330i. They are easier to work on than an e90 and the parts are cheaper. I would avoid the E46 323/325s. They are the same amount of work and aren't any fun.

I have seen a lot of e53 X5s out there with very lose prices. If you just got a simple 3.0l e53 it would also be pretty easy to work on (perhaps easier than the e46).

With the e46/e53 you will have an easier time avoiding the stealership and most good mechanics should be able to work on it.

Used BMWs are actually cheaper than the Toyota/Honda equivalent because their resale value is low. At 100k miles they turn into a pumpkin in many peoples minds so there can be some good values out there especially if you can work on them.

-Rich