If unexpected bills are the major factor then forget an 8 year old BMW.

For the same money you can probably get something newer and lower mileage (if not as fashionable) and that should be your priority.

Don't misunderstand me - there is nothing wrong in particular with an 8 year old 1-Series, just that any car of that age you have to accept carries more risk and potential going wrong factor than something newer and lower miles. As long as you accept that then buy one, but you will have to be at least prepared to spend some money on it during your ownership peroid - this is why used cars are cheaper than new ones.

Most warranties are pretty uselss in my opinion on older cars and whilst a reputable dealer is responsible for any major calamaties after purchase this responsibility is limited in both time and scope on such a car and after that you are on your own.

Just go into it with your eyes open and your expectations realistic and you'll be fine.

Have a look at the Good Garage guide on this site.

I don't know what the requirements are to get listed on the Good Garage Guide - but there's some carp ones on there in my area !

It just looks like a Yellow Pages list of car dealers to me.