FIRST CAR CHOICES! BMW 323ci sport coup, 2003 BMW 330i 4dr sport, 2004 Mazda Rx8?

As much as I love my RX7, I would not recommend it as a first car or as an only car. The same goes for the RX8. It is an enthusiasts car because it is fickle on operation and requires the driver to check the fluids on a daily basis or suffer the consequences. They should not be started unless you have at least 1/2 hours driving to do before you turn them off.
But I am not crazy about any BMW over five years old either. BMW owners are considered fair game by any mechanic and as a result they tend to have higher repair bills then most other cars. But if you are willing to pay the bills that go with ownership, get the 323ci Sport Coup. If you gotta go might as well do it in style.