[javadog]

A couple of suggestions here. First, ignore the comments from those that have never owned these cars (E30 BMW). Those that have owned one, perhaps two, look at their comments through squinty eyes.

An E30 is a good car. So much better than an E21, you'd be a fool to look at the earlier car. Heed the advice about the eta/4 speed car and at least drive one before you make up your mind. The 325i needs revs to perform. You will find a 325 auto to be lacking in grunt at city speeds.

Keep another thing in mind. Apart from those examples owned by enthusiasts like me, most of these cars are just transportation for their owners and are the poster children for deferred maintenance. I have spent months and huge dollars sorting out low mileage garage queens, so something with high miles that has been put away wet it's whole life should be inspected REALLY well before purchase. Caveat emptor.

The advice about the Hondas is also good. I can't stand to drive one (even though I used to be a Honda dealer) but perhaps you can overlook their appliance quality. They can be good, reliable cars if maintained properly.

Also good advice from others is the notion to buy something a little newer. Lot's of reasons that this makes sense. I wouldn't suggest a Taurus, or any American car. Who is this tabs person anyway?

I'd also consider waiting till you have more of an idea about the leg's prognosis. A manual gearbox is much better for a cheap car, if you can use it.

JR