Seeing as the weights are really different.. I assume with a good tune, the power:weigth rate can equal or surpass the 4.8i.

3.5i:
Pros: Good looking (IMO good money spent if you get the Sport Activity), I6, economic, Post facelift, Many more standard options, New Idrive, Lots-o-torque

Cons: No v8 roar, tunes arn't free

4.8i:
Pros: V8 rumble (flutter in my mind),

Cons: Pre-Facelift, Areo pack is pricy, Old Idrive (if pre 10')

IMO: the 3.5i Sport Activity is the Best Bang or Buck. my 2c (With a good tune performance could be near 5.0 status)

If your all uppity about the exhaust tips, IRRC the Msport shares 5.0i tips.

__________________
~The Family Cars~

1997 BMW 540i [Jet Black / Black] [None ]
2001 BMW X5 4.4i [Jet Black / Black] [Sport]
2003 BMW 540i [Sterling Gray / Gray] [Msport] [Shades] [Folding seats] [DSP] [Aux] [ICE V5]
2008 BMW 550i [Jet Black / Black] [Sport] [Paddles] [Comfort Access] [IPOD] [Shades] [Nav] [PDC]
A 5'er that was almost too good too be true.


C~Certain
P~Problems
O~Overlooked