Supercharger

[DinanX5]

Originally Posted by TahoeM3

The problem is that the 4.8is isnt really all that much faster or more powerful in stock form than the 4.4i. I really wish the top of the line X5 got the 5 L 400 engine from the M5. THAT would be worth the price of admission. The 40 hp difference between the 4.4i and 4.8is is nothing comared to conservatively 105-135 hp that can be extracted from the 4.4i safely using supercharger, tuning, intake, and exhaust. You could do the same with a 4.8is, but the 4.4i is probably better for adding forced-induction becuase of its lower compression ratio. The N62 4.4i is a well-designed engine and there is plenty of room to extract more power. It's not like the S54 that is so high-strung.

Of course, then you get into the discussion of how much power do you really need in an SUV...don't really want to open that can of worms. But I say GO FOR THE SUPERCHARGER.

[Guss]

I also agree (and I bought the 4.8) IF performance is of more value 2u than exclusivity (although the 4.8 is no slouch but needs trans software upgrade).

[andrewl]

for the extra dough...consider a motorcycle or go kart and trailer combo for the X5? For sheer speed, you can't go wrong. Or a used performance car...plenty of them under 10k.

I considered supercharging mine..but then, after thinking the majority of the time I drive, this truck is plenty fast. This truck does 140!!!! Cruises easily at 90 mph, handles phenominally well and gets good looks once you put the 20" wheels on. Once I thought Supercharging, I immediately thought of upgraded brakes, wheels, and suspension...ADD THAT to the list too!!! Plus it drastically decrease your gas mileage.

I personally feel that if you are going to put whatever money in this truck is (and I've gave it serious thought) what others have been doing..asthetics and enjoyment INSIDE the cockpit will be the best.

Personally, I've done the following:
Better dustless brakepads (I'm happy with that Akibono<sp?> stuff)
Subwoofer (absolutely required imo)
20" factory looking wheels and tires (ok so is not inside..but cool factor is there)
Radar Detector
Factory SunShade
Car Cover
Radar Detector
Radar Detector
Radar Detector

I've been toying with the idea of a back up camera

These are not "speed mods" but they definitely make your ride so much more enjoyable. If I want speed, I just hop on one of my motorcycles or my vintage firstgeneration turbo RX7 that is modified and get the giggles...nonetheless if I was to race say for a very long distance with various weather condition...neither my toys will beat an X5. My fastest time ever on a typical 400mi trip was with this truck.

I recall having fun with a Dodge Magnum, STI, MLs, Durangos...all were just shocked that this factory 5000lb (with driver in it) truck does so well in speed and agility contest...all with the a/c and stereo on.

[03Topazbluex5]

Voices of reason?!?!?! Are you crazy!! If i had the cash right now i'd be turning my x5 into the baddest SAV the world has ever seen, kinda like the LeMans that BMW built I'd take a day in that thing over a night with a 5 thousand dollar hooker anyday! (or night)

And you guys are really telling me that you'd rather spend the day worrying about how many MPG you'll get over driving a 400 or 500hp (i'm thinking more like 700hp ) in a truck, sorry SAV!

And here i thought you guys we're gearheads! :p

[pepatrick]

Im sorry this thread is still going on. I had a brief lapse of sensability. There will be no supercharger going in my X5. I have the money, but the money will be used for some upgrades on the house. I will actually get most of the money back by putting it into the house...if not all or more. Thanks for all the comments.

[x5GuyInLA]

Originally Posted by TahoeM3

The problem is that the 4.8is isnt really all that much faster or more powerful in stock form than the 4.4i. I really wish the top of the line X5 got the 5 L 400hp engine from the M5. THAT would be worth the price of admission. The 40 hp difference between the 4.4i and 4.8is is nothing comared to conservatively 105-135 hp that can be extracted from the 4.4i safely using supercharger, tuning, intake, and exhaust.

I agree...the difference in price between a 4.8is and a 4.4i isn't worth it. The 4.8is is roughly $13k more than a comparably equipped 4.4i. Granted $2500 of it is for the body kit, but for that kind of money, you could mod your 4.4i to be much faster than a 4.8is. I say do it if you have the need for speed (and power).

Oops...didn't see the last message until i was done.