CJ:

People survived for decades without AWD. Having said that, we are accustomed to driving faster, turning sharper, and stopping quicker than they got to. RWD and four snow tires get around fine, but they won't go up as many hills as AWD and four snow tires.

In the snow, a 530 will be better than a 545. You want less torque, not more. I would always take the manual in the snow, myself.

If you are going to be living in Florida, AWD sounds like a poor choice. OTOH, driving around Florida with summer tires and putting snows on just to go home for the holidays doesn't sound like the best plan either.

Everything is a compromise. Get ready for trade-offs.

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2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White

Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue