Thoughts - 3.0 vs 4.8 - 2007 - 2010

[JMNYNJ]

I was set to buy a 2011 4.4 50i and had a pre-inspection done. It passed and was buying. Private owner. He sent me a copy of the title for my loan and then called to say he had a better offer and wanted me to match. I wouldnt do it and lost the x5. This weekend I found two local 4.8 2007 - both sold before I can get there on Monday.

So I have some bad luck - - and now I found a 2010 3.0I and test drove it today. It is almost nothing like the other two - and I am unsure about making an offer. The engine may be more reliable which is big - but it is also the lack of power, sport package and more that is making me think twice.

Just curious what the thoughts are of all of you - gas mileage is almost identical, but the power isnt nor is the handling. So I would say almost less fun to drive - but thoughts value wise.

After reading the horror stories here on the 50i i ALMOST feel like he did me a fvor by backing out on his word. Just think he should have reimbursed me for the pre-inspection since we agreed and he even sent me a title.
4.8 doesnt seem as bad - but again - some nightmare stories here.
3.0 - seems much more reliable.

Pretty frustrated and ready to just buy something else.

[jiggz]

Sorry to hear, sounds like a frustrating situation Maybe it was for good reason that 50i was sold to someone else?

I have the 50i and personally love it, don't think any of the other models would make me as happy. With that said I drove the 35i and it was fun too, and being it has similar performance to the 4.8i, I'd probably would have liked that one too.

The 3.0, while perhaps most reliable, it going to be a turd on the open highway. 265 HP is just too little if you're looking to have some fun.

Have you driven all these models? Do you have a preference on engine/year? There's so many for sale out there, I'd determine which engine you want and start your search from there. Lots to choose from. Might have to be a little patient, but they're out there.

[JMNYNJ]

Thanks for the info. I do say maybe it happened for a reason. But we agreed, and I paid for a pre-inspection. We were all set and I was getting the check the next day. He sent me a copy of the title. Ran my credit for nothing. Very frustrating. I requested he at least give me back my inspection money but he wont return my call.

My two favorite options - I love the 4.8 sport package with the Y214 wheels in Black. 2007-2013. The 35I with the Sport package and same wheels as well. I keep saying I will find it.

Glad you have success with the 4.4 50i but when I was buying and after he screwed me the things I have read scared me badly.

I know - I test drove it today and it was nice, but lacking in power and wasnt nearly as fun to drive.
I have been looking non-stop for weeks. Not looking to spend too much - below 15 if possible so my choices are limited. And in Black.

I lost two 4.8's this weekend - just getting frustrated.

[X5 MAN]

When my 2011 X5 50i M-sport, was in service for 48 hours at the BMW dealer, they gave me a brand new 2018 X5 35i as a loaner. I drove it for about 100 miles in 48 hours. It just felt totally bland and insipid with numb steering and meh acceleration. I felt I was driving a Honda Pilot or a Kia Sorento which I have driven from my family members. The only redeeming feature is the large infotainment screen. But that is not my sought after attribute in a X5.

Even a 2011 50i drives like a high powered sports car !!

[LastLong]

2007-2010
Fun = 4.8i
Reliability = 3.0si

2011-2013
Fun = 50i
Reliability = 35i (fun enough)

The good choice will be a 2011-2013 35i (Sport Package or M Package).
If you want absolutly a Pre-LCI model (2007-2010) you should take the 4.8i for the fun drive and the better sound than the 3.0si, but make sure they are clean and no "seal valve" issue...

[Thecastle]

Personal opinion on owing both a 4.8i and M.... they are quite expansive to keep maintained. But I think the inline 6 doesn’t stock have enough power. It’s a bit pokey and not that different in fuel economy. I’d go for 35i tuned as a compromise. If your worried about money,

Otherwise there is no replacement for a v8. The 4.8i sounds good, and they tow well.

[JMNYNJ]

Thank you. I think the 35i is the best overall choice unless I find someone with a 4.8 with Valve seals completed recently. I found a 3.0i - nice but noticeable difference between the 4.8 and 3.0 - 3.5 falls somewhere in the middle.

How can I have it tuned as some have mentioned. I love the sound of the 4.8 and 35i doesnt have the throaty sound, is it the MPPK ? Where and how much - thank you!

[jiggz]

Originally Posted by JMNYNJ

Thank you. I think the 35i is the best overall choice unless I find someone with a 4.8 with Valve seals completed recently. I found a 3.0i - nice but noticeable difference between the 4.8 and 3.0 - 3.5 falls somewhere in the middle.

How can I have it tuned as some have mentioned. I love the sound of the 4.8 and 35i doesnt have the throaty sound, is it the MPPK ? Where and how much - thank you!

The 35i, which actually has a 3.0L - performance is actually right on par with the 48i, maybe a hair behind if anything. But yes, won't sound as good if you like V8's.

Lots of tuning options out there, you should be able to find a few threads on this with a quick search. MPPK is dealer installed software, but there is also an M performance exhaust for the 35i. There's a few vids on youtube if you search (mostly F15's, but it should give you a good idea) - it's a sporty sound I guess, but it still doesn't sound anything like the V8.

35i M Performance Exhaust - https://www.getbmwparts.com/oem-part...st-18302166934

[JMNYNJ]

Thank you for all the information. I appreciate everyone sharing their knowledge.