I use to have an '92 E36 325IS COUPE and I purchased it from an owner who did have quite a few problems with it but he did get them all fixed, mostly the "known E36 problems", and I had no problems with it for the 4 years I drove it. I did a few mods to the exterior and engine and the car was very good to me. I think if you purchase the car now, chances are the previous owner took it too the shop to get the "known e36 problems" and had them fixed. So I think if you get a car that checks out mechanically, you will be okay as far as repairs goes. Don't know if this helps but it's just my experience with a used E36. I still love that car and the body style is so sweet!!!
Frosty Power 323CI