the BMW's are dearer - but probably better - could get a newer ST220

my brother p/xd his 1999 323i E46 122000 miles and only got £2000 and that was on a £20K BMW. (only found out when he came round in his new car).

There are alot of E46's around year 2000 all under £4k - 330i's included. but can get a 2002 ST220 0r 2003/4 VRS - but I fancy the V6 smoothness (previously had the old mondeo V6 in 1996 and always liked it).

I suppose first good one at a good price that comes up will suffice.