The e70 never grew on me, but i see some lowered with big 22 rims that looks nice.

In stock form, apart from the x5m, I would like the pre-facelift 4.8 Msport.

I do think the E53 is starting to look out dated, but so is the lack luster design of the e70.

Since you like both, I would narrow it down to the "issues" unique to both vehicles. With the e53 4.8is, it seems the blue smoke issue is the biggest worry.

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2005 4.8is. Blue ext, white int.