3 series would be the answer to the closest match. However, from what I gather (I just bought a 2000 328 Coupe) buy one, make it a 330 CI with low mileage and buy it used from the dealer so you can get the good BMW preowned warranty -
Bought mine based on my previous experience with an E30 325 and a 633 that were well buit, solid and killer to drive. My E30 had 180K on in when I sold it and it still wasn't using oil, everythiing still worked on it. Loved that car.
NOW THE NEW ONES
Great driving car, has more character than anything Japanese, more highbrow, quick, definitely a driver's car smooth and powerful, drivetrain well built but some bugaboos from what I've researched so far (experts feel free to correct me / ease my mind if I'm wrong)
1- tendency to eat lower control arms - seen guys who've had them replaced multiple times even before 50K. Manifests itself as a kick in the steering wheel when you tap the brakes hard. Really bad when you have wobble at high speeds. Dealers carry 'em in stock as proof of issues.
2- Rear subframe mounts and differental mounts (this issue scares the crap out of me - found out this could be a problem after I bought it) - car has a tendency to rip out the rear suspension around the rear strut area and the differental has been known to completely tear away from the car - expensive welding required to fix. People have claimed under normal driving this has been a problem in as little as 30K miles. Hard drivers, obviously more occurences. This has been a problem with E36 and E46 and a few other models here and there.
Check it out:
http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=195602
On the other hand, given the amounts of 3 series on the roads it could be limited to those who truly abuse their cars, of which will always break. The fact that this is brought up on a BBS would just indicate a small sampling - sincerely hope this issue isn't the norm.
3 - Clips break in the moonroof shade, not hard to fix if you somewhat mechanically inclined - more of an annoyance.
4- cooling fan failure on lots of 'em around 40-50K miles and automatics. (just my observation)
Other good things are they are pretty low maintenance thanks to synthetic fluids and whatnot. If it wasn't for those issues mentioned these cars would be the best in their class. I love driving mine but the issues have me rattled. Too late since I now own one.
Hope someone proves me wrong..
rjp
PS they are expecting the new 3 series (E90) in spring 05 so you might want to wait till then since the price will drop.