The first BMW I bought was for my wife in 2002. An E46 318i with the then new 2.0L Valvetronic variable valve lift engine which negated the need for a throttle butterfly. After buying her a new car, it was temporarily my work car then went to my daughter. It was beautifully built, handled well and yet had a very smooth ride for a small car. In this period of time the entire BMW range was special and included gems such as the E46 M3 and E39 M5. I have bought two BMWs and driven newer cars since then and although very nice, the E46, comparatively for the time, was a better car. It now resides in Queensland and I would have it back as a project if it came up for sale.