 I've owned my M3 for 5+ years now and couldn't be happier with her.  I haven't had any major problems with her.  You do have to replace basic wear items if you expect these old cars to drive like they're intended to*.  I still enjoy every moment I'm behind the wheel of this car.  The aftermarket is full of options to keep the E36 driving as good or better than new.  *items like bushings that would need to be replaced on any car, but the average person driving their Corolla into the ground doesn't typically care about these items or getting optimal handling out of their daily driver.