An earlier model would just be a better value at this point as he could get one with an I6 as opposed to the I4 he'd probably have to get if he insisted on a refreshed model. If I were him, I'd go for an '06 or newer (merely to avoid the first year ('05) teething problems) 330i. It's a fantastic motor and the car is solid. The only thing that will ever go wrong would be an iDrive equipped car, especially as you live in a hot environment. As I always say, the fewer tech options, the better.
My only recommendation is to avoid the turbo'd (335i) models as they have already had problems with their high-pressure fuel pumps.