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A BMW and a 911 are very different machines. If you like 911s, you probably won't like BMWs, and vice-versa. 911 drivers seem to feel that a car that goes precisely where you point it takes a lot of the adventure out of the driving experience.
The late e36 M3s (97-99) were highly desirable vehicles, but finding one now that has not been thrashed completely would be a challenge. M3 owners, as a rule, are tougher on their cars than Porsche owners.
e46 M3s are also a good choice, though you probably want to avoid the first couple of years. They tend to tear the rear subframe loose from the body, though that can be fixed.
There was an e46 330i with zhp performance package that is highly prized but there are very few of them around. That should handle a 25-year old Porsche without the maintenance woes of an M3. Although, if you are used to maintaining a 911, an M3 would not intimidate you.
The e46 M3 or 330 with sport suspension is a fairly rough ride, as BMWs go, but again, coming from a 911, you won't mind it.
My dream car is the 2007 M Coupe. There was a beauty at the local BMW dealer a few months ago. My wife took one look at it and was willing to sell internal organs to buy it (my internal organs). The guys on Top Gear agree with me. They raved over that car when they drove it.
As for price range, spend some time on eBay Autos, AutoTrader, Cars.com to see what they are going for and refine your choices. Be patient. I wanted a white 3 or 5 series wagon with 6 cyl and stick shift. I looked for a year before two popped up at the same time, one in Seattle and one in LA.
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