E53 4.8is vs E70 X5 4.8i

[x5?]

Can anyone shed some light on the E53 X5 4.8is vs the current E70 X5 4.8i. I'm looking to purchase either the E53 or the E70. I love the older E53 X5 4.8is but I know the E53 had some serious air suspension problems. Has anyone owned both? Which would be the better X5 to purchase? Thanks in advance!

[Ronan]

I've owned both. The 4.8is is raw and sooo much fun to drive. The 20s help it corner on rails. But I too was prone to the suspension issues. Airbag leaks and master control failure. Luckily all was covered under warranty. Rotor failure was the final reason I traded it in for the E70 4.8i. It's almost as much fun to drive. Performance is comparable despite the added weight. But with that added weight you get a smoother ride, better nav system and updated technology. E70 should be a little more expensive but get a good CPO and you'll be happy

[LeMansX5]

The throttle and other engine settings on 4.8is are tuned very different and are very sporty and ///M car like. No air suspension issues and I owned it for 6+ years.

[x5?]

Thanks for the feedback! I'm really torn between the 2 models. I love the performance aspects of the 4.8is but I'm concerned about all of these mechanical issues that are posted on this board. It seems like that the E70 4.8i doesn't perform as well as the 4.8is but is a more reliable SAV?

[jbny]

I have no experience with 4.8i however have been very happy with the 4.8is so far, drives awesome and handles great, i have not had any major issues so far, but am worried about potential issues too, but remember most forums will have users posting questions about issues however not many will post if everything is great with their X5.
I like the overall stance of the 4.8is better however 4.8i is'nt lacking in the looks dept either.
Drive both and see which one you like more...I absolutely love the sound of the 4.8is and have been called a show off once when i started it up....idk why cause i did'nt even rev it, it was in an underground parking thou.

[LeMansX5]

Originally Posted by jbny

I have no experience with 4.8i however have been very happy with the 4.8is so far, drives awesome and handles great, i have not had any major issues so far, but am worried about potential issues too, but remember most forums will have users posting questions about issues however not many will post if everything is great with their X5.