This really is a great story. It feels similar to what my father and I had experienced over the years. Having owned all generations (minus F8x) we both gravitate to the E46 M3. Having owned 6 over the years, there are currently 3 in the stable.
LOVE that you go after the rare birds. There are some fantastic colors and combinations out there. Enjoy these cars. You've got quite the stable.
And if you want to add a 1 of 2 in the world (1 of 1 in the U.S.) Interlagos over Platinum White ZCP/6MT/18,8xx miles to the stable let me know!