Sterling,
I have owned all the models you mentioned and then some, e.g., e36, e39 (still have an e30 and e28s, plus a 2002), and the e28 is, IMO, the best all-around BMW ever made! It's not to small, not to large, excellent visibilty, 4 doors, big trunk, good performance (which can be made excellent), good-looking... in a boxy sort of way
, bullet-proof motor (especially the M30), maintainable by a DIYer, and all the issues are known as are the solution. What more could you ask for!!
I had a track version e28 M5 (just sold it last year) and it was like an e30 m3 on steroids... awesome car. I highly recommend you take a drive in a good one and then we can help you find one to buy... you won't regret it.
-RoyW