I haven't seen anyone mention the transmission, but the 8 speed in my 35i is probably the biggest improvement for me. Great torque and acceleration with a good top end as well. At 180kph I've got less than 3k on the tach. The added complexity would of course add to the price of any needed repairs.

I do have to say, the feel of the interior on my E53 vehicles is much sturdier than the composition of the E70. Plastics feel thinner and there's more of it compared to the E53. Rattles as a result seem more common, but they can be tracked down and dealt with.

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- 2011 BMW X5 x35i
- 2005 BMW X5 4.4i
- 2005 BMW X5 3.0i
- 2004 BMW X5 4.4i