Don't be so negative, you can score a set of stock size Barums for a touch over $450 from Discount Tire.


Other than that in 5 years mine has not cost any more than my other cars for maintenance and the major outside expense was to replace the stock radio with a Bluetooth head unit and I started with one that had over 120k miles on the clock.


Keep in mind that the same powertrain was used in tens of thousands of Mercedes (essentially anything that is a -320) and there is a thriving aftermarket.


Key is to buy the best one you can find and just enjoy it. Parts are available from the big three. Maintenance is no more difficult than any car, only exception is 8 quarts of 0w-40 Mobil 1 (available at Walmart often on sale). All the documentation you would ever need is available here for download.


Or get a Honda.