New X5 5.0 vs. Used X5M? Also, question re: Monte Carlo Blue

[///Armin]

I'm a E92 M3 owner and just got my 50i. I could have purchased a 2010 X5M for around the same price with very low miles but did not go for it. First of all it was a very hard decision, the X5M felt like exactly what I wanted as terms of a SUV but yet with enough power and handling to satisfy my needs. But when I stepped back and looked deep I realized that it wasn't the right choice. I realized that a SUV can never be a sports car, different cars for different needs. the 50i is absolutely amazing at being a sports SUV. It has the handling and the power to make it feel like a sport sedan but yet very easy and comfortable to drive. Here were my reasons:

1. The resale value on it absolutely sucks, I had been looking at some X5Ms for a few months and they are still for sale. You will have a hard time getting rid of it. Therefore your loss on it is a lot compared to a regular X5.

2. There are chipping problems so you have to do a 3M right away and you also have to have a second set of tires since it winter they don't have any traction. Therefore consider a few thousand extra added to the cost of the car.

3. The 50i seats and suspension are VERY comfortable, if you want to drive this thing everyday and in traffic and long drives, it's so smooth. The X5M being sporty was like my E92 M3 on steroids, I could not be in a it for hours for a full day.

4. You are constantly tempted to go fast and explore with the X5M. when looking at a daily drive SUV, I personally wanted something to sit in and relax unlike the M3. I mean off course there are times that I do want to drive spirited but both ///Ms will constantly tempt you even when you dont' want to.

5. If you are looking at the a new 2012, then it's a huge difference compared to the older models. They have done an amazing job on the turbo. I was worried it would not satisfy my needs. I'm often at stop lights or pull out of an exit and before knowing it all cars are far behind me, that's without me even pushing it. That honestly is enough for a daily driver.

Go for it, trust me you wont' regret it.

PS get the comfort seats and adaptive driver but not active steering. Two of the best options ever. Also the Nappa option is very nice, you also get the dash in Nappa when you choose this option for free.