Beautiful write up! I think you characterized the M235i perfectly. I'm 3 weeks into ownership and the car draws me in exactly the same way. I have never owned such a satisfying car - nothing even close.
Like you, I've long considered myself somewhat of a car nut, but never could afford to jump into the crowd car-wise. Every car I've ever owned was lacking in something - handling, power, braking, you-name-it. I can't remember how many times I bought a car, only to see it offered months or a year later with a much better engine, etc. It made me sick. And the cars weren't all that great to begin with.
So here I am, finally, with my dream car!
Thanks, BMW!