Originally Posted by Mike C

http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2086989.htm

is what I'd recommend. Your budget isn't enough for an E46 M3, you don't need diesels. Any "normal" spec 8k BMW will be at an age (and also common enough) to be heavy on depreciation. LS1 economy on the motorway is excellent for what it is, and the seats are uber-comfortable.

Just to be a bit different from the norm.