e36's imo are the most understated of all bmw's. I get why, the e30 is iconic and late e46 still looks pretty modern... the e36 doesn't really fit in there. However their build quality is superb possibly the best of the bunch. I wouldn't hesitate to buy an e36 m3 but you will find it hard to get a nice evo for 6k now.... they are shooting up in value.