4.8is vs. 4.4i

TS_4.8is · #1 02-27-2006, 05:37 PM

I've read a good amount of reviews that say the 4.8is is overkill and not worth the extra money... I'm getting one delivered very soon and was just curious what other 4.8is owners thought about the criticism of this car. What all the articles have in common is the notion that the 4.8is is not that "noticeably better" than the 4.4i. My good friend who is an automotive journalist specializing in BMW's & German car reviews says the 4.8is is significantly better in many ways, i.e. steering, brakes, susp., engine... I would love to hear from 4.8is owners who either have owned a 4.4i previously or driven one enough to form an opinion on this.

Thanks y'all.

DINANM3 · #2 02-27-2006, 05:41 PM

its not that much more money when you compare a fully loaded 4.4 to a 4.8. Most of the extra money for the 4.8 is because all those options are standard and are not on the 4.4. If its your only car i would definately go with the 4.8 main reason for me is the brakes. Alot better than my 4.4 I went with the 4.4 cecause i already have a few sports cars and didnt really think i needed the 4.8 but next time around i may go for it.

jpm4.8is · #3 02-27-2006, 06:08 PM

It's like comparing a 330ci to an M3...

DINANM3 · #4 02-27-2006, 06:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jpm4.8is

It's like comparing a 330ci to an M3...

There is a difference no dought. But no where near the difference between a 330 ci and an M3. The M3 has an extra 107hp over the 330. The 4.8 only has 40hp more.

4.6is Ryder · #5 02-28-2006, 01:14 PM

I don't think you can honestly compare the 2 if you take all standard options plus the sports car feel of the 4.6/4.8 in to account. I've owned a 4.4i and it was a great X...but the fact of the matter is, my 4.6is a lot closer in performance to my ///M3. I don't think BMW was drunk when these were designated as 4.6is(M) and the 4.8is(M). These are as close to a ///M platform as you'll see without spending the additional 10k that a ///M designation would bring. Don't put stock in the articles...members on this board live a breath this on a regular basis. Sometimes I feel that BMW NA and others should consult this board prior to printing X material........Phil

Quote:

Originally Posted by jpm4.8is

It's like comparing a 330ci to an M3...

LeMansX5 · #6 02-28-2006, 01:46 PM

I went from 4.4 to 4.8 and was difference for me in handling, engine power, braking power. 4.8 engine is tuned differently. More sporty, louder and different exhaust note. Totally different feeling behind the wheel.

fln8tive · #7 02-27-2006, 06:43 PM

I'm in the same boat...pretty loaded up 4.4 with 18K...I want to sell it at 24K (miles). The 0 to 60 and HP are close, but I have never gotten to light up a 4.8...I can't recall what the 4.4 torque is but I know the 4.8 pulls 369--a nice bump. My quandry is it appears the 2007 X5 will have 360hp vs 355hp for the current 4.8....what happens to the 2006 4.8 value if power and performance is eclipsed by the "base" V-8 2007 X5?

DINANM3 · #8 02-27-2006, 07:32 PM

its going down just like any other car unfortunately

TS_4.8is · #9 02-27-2006, 07:43 PM

which makes the older 4.8's collectors items.

E61Silver · #10 02-27-2006, 07:53 PM

I am leasing a 2005 4.4 for $575.

It has a ton of power stops great and cost much less than the 2005.

Options included preiumpackage, cold weather and heated rear seat.

Other than 20 inch rims, what options are on the 4.8?

I think the 18 inch rims provide a softer ride.