Forget MPG ... Best Long Term Option 50i or 35d

[140.6]

As the title suggests if you were going to keep an X5 for a long time which model would you expect to be the most reliable mechanically over that time assuming that it is maintained via an old school methodology (oil changes at 5k, trans and diff at 30k, brake fluid and coolant 30k or every two years, etc.). Additionally, let's assume that the vehicle will be kept for 7-10 years.

Just so you know I am a long time BMW owner (e39 M5, e92 M3, e70 35d). The current diesel is going to be returned/sold at the end of its lease, this was really an experiment to see if I would like it and I do but I did not get adaptive drive and I really want it. So that means I will be ordering either a 50i or 35d in a few months.

At the end of the day I really am looking for the best long term solution. So let's have at the long term reliability, etc. while not discussing MPG.

Thanks.

[blue dragon]

I normally keep my cars about 6 - 8 years. Kept my M3 for 8, figure I'll keep the diesel for the same.

[ccieurzo]

Taking a look at the data from Consumer Reports, you would be better off with the V8.

[Naz24]

I know it's not the same engine, but my 4.4i from 2004 with just about 100k on it is running great. I am very meticulous about maintenance also..

Go for the V8!!

[motordavid]

Not an xpert on either, but while your 'old school maintenance' method(s) are admirable, (and I follow most of that regime myself), I would suspect it is the electronics/electrical/gizmo/'puter stuff that will be the Achilles Heel over time.

Our '01 3.0 still runs very reliably and well, over a decade plus, and with less than a handful of 'repairs' other than maintenance...but, it is older/lower tech, and fairly gizmo free.

If I was buying a new E70 for the longer term, it would only be the diesel, fwiw, but that car version is also loaded to the gunwales with electronics, 'systems',
and gizmos.
My 50 Cts.

GL, mD

[jeremym]

V8.

[BGM]

If you are talking motor alone (aside from electronics, etc) then neither the TT or the Diesel have been tested long-term---nobody can answer that until a few more years. Which is why I went with a CPO 4.8--I keep my cars 8-10 years and don't want to take the risk.

[ard]

I'd make the decision based on what gives me 3,650 days of driving enjoyment... and not based on a few days one way or the other on what might happen.

V8 vs Diesel... the odds that the ONE sample you get will 'follow' the predicted reliability of the population is low.

Nice choice in cars. AD makes me smile too.

A

[dmfelger]

I assume the CR report is on the '09 - first model year in US. My '09 plagued with issues. My '11, not a peep, other than tires replaced at 20K.

Tough choice. I did not test drive the TTV8. SA said if I did, I would want it. Probably. Screaming V8 vs. beautiful music. Both put smiles on your face (especially the grunt from both).

ARD - AD is VERY nice, especially on the washboard freeways in LA. The best option I could choose.

[MPowerFarmer]

Not even a question the diesel. I just traded in my diesel with 50k miles for $45k. I think much of this has to do with the demand for exported cars. We have diesel semis with 500k miles on them. Diesel engines are built to last forever.