There's a reason why BMW is a critic's fav, and it's not because they are in bed w/ em, it's called engineering a kick ass car.
talking about the 3 series: it does carry a price premium, because it's the top dog. sure it's an aging platform, but as old as it is, if only the brand new G35 was able to top it, what does it say about the competitors? i test drove a 330 ci, and i was in love w/ that car, and even w/ my unexpert eyes, i could see why the bimmers are where they are.
back to topic at hand, i'm not too hot about the way the boxter looks, but can't deny that it's a sweet ride. and how the hell can you compare the 911 turbo to the boxter? yea, the 911 turbo would be a no brainer, if you had the money, but for the price boxter ain't too shabby