I currently Daily Drive a 1976 2002. They are good cars.

Here is what has gone wring with mine since I got it.
Broke 2 rocker arms (Old age, original rockers)
Broke Transmission output flange (My fault, easily preventible)
Had to replace alternator connection plug (20min)

On the upshot,
They are a blast to drive, very direct feel, good throttle response.
good gas mileage (I get about 26-27 on average, with some spirited driving mixed in)

Here are a couple pointers if you are looking for one:
Buy any year but '73, there were a lot of inherent problems

find one that has as many upgrades as possible, b/c unlike hondas, there are no sketchy ebay parts to install.

Get one with a WEBER Carb!!!!! (b/c you can;t afford one with FI)

All in all it will be better that the e30, because there is less to go wrong. Don't be afraid, come join the old BMW Dark Side.