X5 2006 4.4 or 2007 3.0 ???

[rockblock]

Hey folks, I've been looking at getting an X5 and am stuck between a 2006 4.4 or a 2007 3.0...from my perspective, here are the pros & cons:

e53 4.4 PROS:
- price: $10-15k cheaper than e70 3.0
- size: smaller that e70 3.0 (I don't care for the extra space)
- power: 4.4L 315hp V8 (55 HP + 100 torque more than e70 3.0)
- seems more robust
- weight: 60 lbs less than e70 3.0

e70 3.0 PROS:
- fuel economy: according to specs, 1 gal more than e53 4.4
- Newer technology (iDrive)
- Better interior finish
- nicer tails

I was wondering if anyone had any experience with both vehicles and be able to provide some feedback regarding handling, engine, brakes, suspension, dashboard layout & controls, parts (which are more expensive)

The 2007 seems to be a newer, more sophisticated vehicle, but I think the biggest drawback for me is the huge price difference...so, final question is:

Does the $10-15k price difference justify me tightening the belt and getting the e70 3.0 instead of e53 4.4 (will need a lot of convincing to the wife) ...?

Thx for any feedback !

[Galion]

I rather drive a 3 liter e70 than an old e53 anyday.

[elvism]

after having both e53 and currently e70.. go for the e70..just try getting a better price.. the e53 is nice but now just looks old.. 4 more years and it will be 2 generations old

[rockblock]

Originally Posted by Galion

I rather drive a 3 liter e70 than an old e53 anyday.

OK, agreed...but what are your reasons to justify the $10-15k price difference? Thx

[themoth]

i would get the e70 if it was the 4.8otherwise save your money and get the e53 v8. Just my .02

[wallyx5]

I would get the 4.4. More power. The X5 even two generations old will still look timeless.

[alefcole]

The E70 is the best looking SUV period. If you buy the old model you will regret it for life trust me.

[themoth]

Originally Posted by alefcole

The E70 is the best looking SUV period. If you buy the old model you will regret it for life trust me.

looks yes, but performance in the 3.0 is not impressive. Depends what your looking for performance or looks or both?

[Galion]

The X5 is about looks, space and comfort, performance is good but not the most important thing in a SAV.

If you want a SAV, dont mind looks and crave for power go for a Grand Cherokee SRT8. The e53 is just too old.

[rockblock]

Originally Posted by alefcole

The E70 is the best looking SUV period. If you buy the old model you will regret it for life trust me.

Thx 4 all your feedback, but without driving an e70, the only 2 advantages that I see with the e70 are the tail lights & iDrive (although the joystick seems a bit odd)...that's why I'm looking for any other improvements over the e53 4.4 (engine, handling, braking, finish, materials, etc.), to help me justify the additional weight & $15k (for a 4.8 engine the gap moves to $20k) Thx