I'm not a first time player, but I'll try to answer your questions properly anyway.
uberdowzen wrote...
1. I got the feeling that you import your game save into BG2, correct? If so, are there any side quests I should do before moving onto the sequel? And what level should I be before I finish?
Yes, you can import your character.
What to do beforehand:
1) get 161K XP
2) Collect all tomes of attribute improvement and use them on your PC.
3) Take a look at the table on
this page and decide what items you want to import into BG2.
Unless you're playing BGT, that's all you should be concerned about.
2. How much longer have I got to go (I'm halfway through Chapter 4)
If you simply followed the main story line, then most of the game is still untouched. If you explored everything you could in chapter 4, then you can probably expect 3 (or more) dozen more play hours, I guess (Baldur's Gate is big).
and is there a chance that I can win it before DA2 comes out, bearing in mind that I have gaming ADD.
I have no idea when DA2 is going to come out. And why are you not taking your ritalin?
3. I've heard the sequel is utterly brilliant. Without spoiling anything, how's it different from BG1?
Your NPCs come more to life through conversations among each other and with you. This is the most important difference imo. Other things are the enormous growth in power and with that a completely new spell system and game balance (which not everybody likes, but hey, at least you won't die from a single stray fireball anymore!)
Assemble your own demilich. Rid the swordcoast of it's ever-present infestation with dragons. Argue with your sword about fencing techniques. Listen as
this fellow completely loses it. Complete the metallic pants set and find out what the golden pantaloons are actually good for!
And of course, finish the story.
It is possible to import your character from BG1 without actually having finished that game. Don't worry about lack of XP. The giant difference in XP between the two games makes that a minor point (and you'll automatically start with at least 89K XP), only the tomes and maybe the item should be considered before leaving BG1.