That deal just tells you where the dealer and BMW think the value for the V8 is going to be once the 35d gets here. As for performance of the diesel vs the V8, I can believe the Aussie review above. Top Gear tested a BMW 535d and I believe if beat an M5 to 40 mph. Most vehicles seem to have either high HP (they are blisteringly fast once they get going), or high torque (and they move incredibly fast off the line. At some point the two designs intersect. So, off the line and to say 40 mph the 35d will likely outperform the 4.8, after that the 4.8 will pass the 35d and keep going.

Don't laugh at this comparison, but my only experience with diesel was a 2004 Dodge 3/4 Ton Ram pickup. It had something like 525 lb. ft of torque and 285 hp. I'm not one to race from stoplight to stoplight, but when I wasn't pulling a trailer and found myself in the curb lane waiting for a light to turn green - cars parked in the curb lane ahead - I never got beat to 35 mph by anything that was stopped to the left of me (OK, Porsches, etc. not included). And the truck did it effortlessly. My only gripe? Turbo lag.

I'm reserving judgement until I drive the diesel as well. But having come from one, I'm expecting great things and as far as usable performance, I totally understand where the Aussie is coming from.