2003 3.0 or 4.4?

[Mikeb98M3]

I am deciding between a 2003 4.4 or 3.0 both have low miles and are in good condition. I like the power in the 4.4 but have heard they have more problems. Can any one give any info they have on this. Thanks.

[JCL]

There may in fact be marginally more problems with a 4.4 over a 3.0, but I don't think it is enough of a factor to drive a selection decision. It is more about condition of each candidate vehicle, and then fuel economy and resale on the 3.0, vs acceleration on the 4.4.

If you like it, buy it. With both vehicles you should consider an extended warranty (if available) as repairs and parts aren't necessarily cheap.

Good luck.

[jwilburn]

4.4 hands down. Go for the power. Just my $0.02.

[haigha]

My decision to get the 4.4 was made because I think it's a better highway vehicle which is primarily what I use it for. It has better passing power and revs lower (mine's an 04).

[BimmerDude]

go with the 4.4, better engine, and not as many problems as the 3.0. Get an intake and an exhaust and your set. Problems will not occur if you do the proper maintenance on the vehicle, not just this vehicle any vehicle. Good Luck.

[bjo]

Originally Posted by BimmerDude

go with the 4.4, better engine, and not as many problems as the 3.0. Get an intake and an exhaust and your set. Problems will not occur if you do the proper maintenance on the vehicle, not just this vehicle any vehicle. Good Luck.

Uh, I have a BMW tech friend that would beg to differ on that.
Drive a 3.0 and a 4.4. See which one fits your driving and most importantly, budget.

[Vonbimmer]

I have a 2001 4.4i and two other BMW's with the inline six. Overall for the X5 the 4.4 V8 seems like the way to go for overall satisfaction. But I can say that the V8 does require more maintenance than the six's.

I just had the intake gaskets, valley pan gasket and valve cover gaskets done on mine, but I had done as JCL pointed out and gotten an extended warranty which covered it all minus the $100 deductible. This makes the 4.4 an easy choice in my opinion.

[mdrobc13]

I HAD an X5 3.0 (2003) initially and although it was great and I liked the ride and all I could not stand the lack of power/acceleration. Don't get me wrong the car does move but it takes so long getting there and you do feel like you have to stand on the accelerator to get up to pass or merge especially in my opinion. I traded it after 6 mos for an 2003 4.4 and am very satisfied. Not only is there more power available but also more torque and the engine just has more punch all around. I added a Remus Exhaust and may still add a Cold Air intake too or a Dinan Intake to further spice things up. I did the Dinan AT software and performance software upgrades already so it is a different animal! Gas mileage is comparable too and I got a CPO vehicle (best way to go IMHO) so you're set there too get the 4.4 or 4.6 or 4.8i if you can find one but stay away from the 3.0 unless you just can't get into one of the others.

[dzhoka]

4,4 and BUMM!! you fill you suddenly can fly..!!!!!!!!!again !?!

[Tomaz]

The 3.0 is a fine engine, but the X5 is a heavy ride. I chose the 4.4 because it has a reputation for reliability and every now and then, when acceleration is needed, with the 4.4 its there.