I've been lazy and copied my answer from another thread:
I drive a BMW320d 5dr auto which I bought second hand (24,000 on clock) 09 plate - replaced a Mercedes which was an awful drive, it's the best car I've ever driven by a mile, a pleasure to drive in fact. They're very well built and reliable however are practically useless in the snow unless you want to fork out on winter tyres - especially an automatic where it's harder to control the power to the wheels and you can't pull off in a higher gear. Seriously, a few of cm on a slight slope can leave you buggered! Also, BMW services / parts are notoriously expensive from the dealerships. Despite them problems I'd highly recommend it.