Why prefer e53?

[14thbmw]

In another thread I was asked:

"I just picked up a 2006 X5 3.0 for my wife as a daily driver. I was hoping for a 2007-2008 but found this one. It's a 1 Owner car, woman owned with 189,000 miles on and all highway miles. Seems to drive good, with no major issues. I did just replace radiator, expansion tank and hoses as a precaution.
I am wondering why the comment of preferring the e53?
I drive 2005 545 (currently with 186,000 miles) and figured the e70 would be more like that as I like the iDrive features functions.
Just curious of your experience with either models.
Thanks"

I didn't want to hijack that thread so I started this one.

Remember that I'm comparing "big engine" models here. Those who prefer the smaller power plants, or the diesels, may rightly feel differently.

The e53 is a beast. That is the best word to describe it. Strong, authoritative, a bit raw, aggressive. As its driver, it is responsive to inputs and has an amazingly light feel (especially for what it is). It feels planted and isn't fazed by snow or anything the road dishes up, although it is no match for a large deer. The seats are the right size, very comfortable and supportive (sport seats). The only complaint is no rear view camera and a totally outdated Nav and sound interface.

The e70 is more refined, smoother, polished. It feels heavier, but not more planted. Just bulky. The older e70's Nav/sound interface also is out of date, probably all of them are. That's to be expected after about 3-5 years I guess. The 4.8i with sport is very good, but still no e53 in feel and responsiveness. The newer e70 5.0i with turbos had mild turbo lag and never felt like it really wanted to play unless the throttle was mashed. If I could do it, I'd go for an X5M instead of the 4.8i or 5.0i X5s in the e70 lineup. The e70 also is no match for a deer!

I live in the country and commute about 30 miles on back roads. I prefer the M3 of course, but between the Xs I would rather take the beast on the windy two-lanes, especially in bad weather (same tires, same size but not staggered on the e70). But for a longer drive, the e70 is smoother and more comfortable, also quieter inside.

They cost about the same to maintain (I use a 5k oil change interval for both), and I can't tell any reliability difference.

Maybe others could chime in with their experiences. This is all feel, no numbers from the dyno or track. Hope it helps.