Maintenance costs of a 12 year old BMW?

The MOST important thing in my opinion is how many previous owners and if each owner REALLY maintained the car to the BMW maintenance schedule in the owner's manual. Have the car inspected first to see if it will pass your local vehicle inspection to get it licensed for the roads. Car maintenance is the same everywhere. Most people don't do it properly and then try to sell you a lemon car. The magic word "BMW" apparently may not guarantee anything. See answers below.