Is 14k USD too much for a first car?

NO, not in 2016 But can you afford the service it will need? LOOK back in time 2009 (last year made) cost of a SATURN..Out of business..Original MSRP: $22,655 - $27,250 OK, nobody paid sticker for that but who would ever pay $15,000? ..... Always, purchase what you like you're paying for it! I like the 7 series BMW. Ok, but that's me NOT you. Regards

Check out the prices for the same car with similar mileage on CarGurus and Kelley bluebook web site (kbb.com). Off hand, $14000 price seems OK, depending on condition.

It doesn't make a difference what country your first car comes from. My first car is a Volvo V70, and with my experience with many other cars from friends and family, my Volvo has been incredibly reliable. They're great cars. As for the $14k Bimmer, no, it's not too much. Just be prepared to work on it. Otherwise, know a good independent BMW mechanic. I'm not saying they're prone to problems, but just know what you're getting into. Look on bimmerfest.com forums, and read up on the E60. I can't stand that these guys always have to come around on these questions and turn it into a rant on how all European cars are unreliable and not good enough for a younger driver. Don't listen to it, it's a load of BS. But since everyone else is going off topic, I will too. Just my $.02, if you want something cheap, reliable, and European, look into an older Volvo 850/S70/V70/C70. They're truly great cars!