I just traded in my 08 M3 on a new 10 X5 M. I test drove both the 5.0 and M X5s before buying and I will say the difference is well worth it after coming out of an M car. I cannot get over how well the X5 M handles in every way it is much more sports car like than the 5.0. I know that sounds funny for a 5000+ pound SAV but I feeel like I did not give up much over the M3. If money is not an issue then the X5 M wins.......Steve