I'm on my fourth BMW, I've had 2 318i saloons, changed to a 5 series when we had 3 kids, and changed it again for a tourer when I got lurchers, I'm currently driving a 523i and I love it.
I'm not sure about the price though, I paid 7K for mine when it was six yrs old, full leather interior, air con, the works really, BUT it has a high mileage- so that may be why?
I loved the 318- engine just right to give you some power when needed, but not guzzling too much gas.