any model/year to watch out for???

[Fraser]

Originally Posted by Clockwork

I'm currently reading reviews on the xDrive system and trying to find if anyone finds it a night and day difference over the awd system on the pre-2004 models...

I've driven xDrive and non-xDrive E53s back to back in a variety of off-road situations and xDrive makes a big difference in low-traction environments. If, however, you don't intent taking your X off-road then there's not much between the two. And, xDrive, or not, the E53 isn't really a proper off-roader due to its lack of wheel travel and lowish ride height. No dual range gearing doesn't help either. Off-roading an E53 also brings in the question of suspension (Sport isn't as good as standard suspension) and the wheel and tyre package (17s are better than 18s which are better than 19s etc).

[chuckster]

Jeez, you guys are really begining to make me feel bad. My poor old pre-04-2000 is hanging in there pretty good. Hanging on to her because one day she might be a collectors item being one of the very first of the X production run. 140000 and no really major repairs such as engine, tranny etc. Just did put a set of new front axles in and seems to do being good right now "knock on wood". I would really like to do some other improvements but at the moment just doing routine maintenance. And about the AWD.... this vehicle is outstanding in the snow/ice we have been getting here in the southeastern USA.

[justben]

all of them

[Roadkill]

Originally Posted by Clockwork

JCL, the 2004 definitely has some more attractive features that I like, but the price difference in Calgary is redic between a 2003 and 2004. I like the looks of both, but options in the '04 and higher seem better. Angel Eyes, cleaner light covers, adaptive lights, more tranny gears, more power in engine, smells newer and more, are enticing reasons to hold out for an '04 tho...

clock, don't over look the fact of a far superior all wheel drive system with the '04's and newer. x-drive is a more capable drive system over the earlier trucks and i'm assuming you'll see quite a bit of nasty weather where you're at.

[redvault]

Originally Posted by c4racer

personally I would avoid the first year or two if possible - 2000-2001. From there get the best maintained and best condition newest model you can afford 2002-2006.

It you looking for one that is a few years old, you probably want a facelift model with more horse power, 6 speed, and better steering wheel, which begin production end 2003 to 2006. After that, I believe they are xdrive model(?).

[1stE53]

The V8 is a beautiful machine, but if maintenance cost is a large part of your decision making, I would strongly suggest the I6. Solid proven engine (won best engine in its category many many times). I have an 03 3.0 and while I have had a fair share of issues, they have all been small and relatively inexpensive. More space to work in as well. Good luck, I wouldn't change my X5 for anything; bugs and all.

[Clockwork]

really? I looked at some sites in Colorado (I have a friend living there who will check them out for me) and they were no different priced than Calgary.

I'm also needing the cold weather package, so I'm not too sure how many vehicles in the states will have them, unless I buy from a state with cold winters.

BC have many for sale?

[Clockwork]

Sprocket1200, do you know of any good american websites where i can peruse for quality cars? I was told Craigslist.

[Clockwork]

Originally Posted by Fraser

I've driven xDrive and non-xDrive E53s back to back in a variety of off-road situations and xDrive makes a big difference in low-traction environments. If, however, you don't intent taking your X off-road then there's not much between the two.

Fraser, sorry I should have specified. I never intend to off road this beast. I just live in a city where we get MAJOR ice build up and snow heights. So a sick a$$ set of winter/ice tyres are necessary and an AWD system, IF a person can help it. I am lucky enough to be able to.

So I Just want a system that will help me get out of deep snow and ice conditions.

Glad you compared the two systems though. That makes a WORLD of difference to me, thanx for your input.

[Clockwork]

Originally Posted by 1stE53

The V8 is a beautiful machine, but if maintenance cost is a large part of your decision making, I would strongly suggest the I6. Solid proven engine (won best engine in its category many many times).

Thanx for the advice.
I actually do not mind doing maintenance to my cars, to some degree. God knows my 850 puts me to the test. now THATS maintenance required. NEVER get the V12 in an 8 series. Be for warned. (but after all the repairs, mine runs top notch now)
I have a 330 and LOVE that engine, but just feel it would be underpowered in such a large vehicle.
I currently have a 4.7L grand cherokee and that beast has a nice hp/weight ratio, so I'm looking for the same result in the X5