I would *strongly* urge you to consider a Mercedes E-class. You can get a 1 or 2 year old E class in your price range and it is an amazing car. They are extremely reliable, too.

I have owned several BMWs and I really like them, too. My next ride will probably be a Mercedes E Wagon, 4Matic (all wheel drive). That is a $60k car that you can pick up in the low $30's with low miles. A ton of car for the money.

FWIW,
Jim