328i vs. Mustang vs. Altima Coupe?

Ford Mustang of course!

I personally would count the Nissan out. It isn't a performance car like the others, it is just a midsize sedan minus two doors. The suspension, engine, steering, etc is all the same, heck, you don't even get a bigger trunk.

I personally am a fan of European cars, but also American Muscle.

If you want to go seriously fast in a straight line and sacrifice rear seat room and trunk capacity in the name of performance, the Mustang is for you. They are well made, reliable, fast and fun cars. The interior is so-so, about average for American cars.

The BMW is not going to be nearly as fast as the Mustang in a straight line, but what it lacks in speed, it can make up for in handling and practicality. It is the 328i, not 335i, so don't expect a rocket under the hood. It is a 4-door, so you get good passenger room and a big, usable trunk. There is a reason BMW is called the Ultimate Driving Machine, they handle second to none around corners. The interior is also excellent. If you do your homework and pick a well maintained vehicle, a 328i shouldn't give you any more trouble than any of the other two vehicles listed, in fact probably less due to superior german quality.

I'd go with the BMW or the Nissan. Gas mileage and reliability will be poor in the mustang. But the Nissan is a lot newer and only a little more expensive so it just depends on if you want a newer car, or a nicer car. I personally would pick the BMW.

The 328i it only has 84k on it and it is not to expensive. Look for a change in the texture and color of the paint from one area of the car to another. And also look for over spray in the joints of the cars this will tell you if a part was replaced.

I think you answered your own question -- the Nissan is the most sensible and safe deal. The other two cars would be more "fun" to drive but unless you know the other two have no problems and they drive better, go with the safe choice.