Spec X5 Overland Build

[thstone]

I have been building an Overland X5 and thought that I'd share it here on XOP.

This is my 3rd E53 and 5th BMW (two E46s). The first X5 was used as a family hauler and the second was used as a grocery getter. I traded my way into this (3rd) E53 by buying my older son's E36 M3 when he moved to NYC. Then my younger son wanted the M3 so I traded it for his R56 Mini Cooper S. Then I traded the Cooper S to a close friend for this X5.

The plan for this Overland X5 is to be used for off-road trail driving to get to more remote hiking spots and towing a travel trailer to provide support when I'm racing my race car and boondock camping. Its also intended to be a counterpoint to my classic air-cooled 911 daily driver.

The starting point is an almost bone stock 2003 e53 3.0. The only upgrade is the audio system consisting of an Android head unit, amp, and speakers that was professionally installed. The truck has been well maintained and the entire suspension was replaced about 10K miles ago so it rides like its brand new.

That's enough talking, here are a couple of pic's of the starting point. Let's get to upgrading!