Thanks for the kind words, Riggodeaux! It has been an interesting project, for sure. This is the first project car that the total of repairs equals more than what I paid for the car itself! But it was a great experience, I've picked up a few new tools, and learned a new skill or two.

You are absolutely correct about the inaccurate listings. I have been actively shopping for the next project and always hope there is a photo of the center console because 9 times out of 10, the listing will say "manual" but it's clearly an automatic. I think that some people view the Steptronic "manual override" as an actual manual transmission.

If you happen to come across a manual E53, I would love to know about it. I'm looking, too. And I still agree that a meet-up would be a great idea - even if I don't have an X5 at the time. I've tried to set things up with the Peachtree Chapter before, but have never had any success. I guess because they are mostly in the north metro ATL area, and I'm way down here in hicksville, it's too much logistics to set something up.