50i vs 35i? Extra HP worth the engine bomb?

[macmac80210]

Hey all,

Just sold my '08 X5 4.4i and I'm about to purchase a '12 model.

Do any of you have experience with the xDrive 50i engine problems? How are they after 50k miles? I'm looking at a 50i with 52k. I would probably take out an extended warranty (either with BMW or a 3rd party), and I know the 50i can be a time bomb.

I loved my V8 x5, the sound of the engine and just how quick it was. But reliability was less than stellar. I know the 50i can be pretty bad too, so do any of you have thoughts on how much the extra horsepower is worth compared the 3.5i model?

Did any of you have trouble choosing between the v8 and the v6? I know the service bulletin needs to be done on the '12 50i models, but other things like valve stem seals, etc, also tend to go. There are a bunch of documented issues but I just wanted to see if any of you were over 50k miles and about when the trouble starts with these things?

Thanks for any input!