When planning to modify, do I go 5.0 or X5M?
 

I've currently got an 01 X5 4.4 with a DUDMD tune, lowered on BC Racing coilovers and staggered iForged 20's, otherwise mostly stock. Even with 147k and after having been pushed to the limits from going to multiple Bimmerfest and other cars meets, she's been great...but I'm looking to upgrade.

I know this kinda sounds like a no brainer, but stock to stock isn't a fair comparison. I've tried doing a Google search, but not really finding the answers I'm looking for.

It's my understanding that the 5.0 and X5M are the same engine, just different tuning and some exchangeable parts. I watched this (https://youtu.be/4gGzq4Pyv8Q) YouTube video where they compared a modified 335i vs an M3 and it was parting hairs in performance, but the price difference, maintenance, insurance, etc between the two would be significant. Hence my curiosity about these two X5's and how the parting of hairs might be similar here as well. Ultimately I'd modify either one right away with coilvers and wheels, so the factory M suspension is irrelevant. When it comes to performance mods, if they're in fact the exact same engine, wouldn't I be able to do the exact same mods, then get to stock M power or more, for less? 5.0's are in the $30k range, yet X5M's are still in the $40k+ range...I've even seen one in NYC that's pushing upwards of 700hp, but he's asking $64k. With the same mods, wouldn't one be able to achieve those same numbers on the lower priced 5.0 platform?

I hope you guys see where I'm going with this question. M power without the M price, it seems theres no reason it can't be done, but I figured you guys would know best as to why I shouldn't.

Aren't the turbos different?

BimmerBoost - BMW twin turbo V8 analysis - Power potential, tuning, performance, and architecture of the N63 and S63 motors

Not sure, but I'll read up...thanks for the link. Everything I've read so far is a given in that the X5M is better, but I'm still trying to figure out performance wise if the 5.0 can be easily made into X5M power.

The M cars have more going for them. The entire powertrain is beefed up, and you get a killer braking system too. Plus the M will be worth more long term.

Btw I have a E53, 2001... Great vehicle.

Chris

It's mostly the same engine, the M has a 6spd while the 5.0 has an 8 speed, braking is better on the M but braking is better on the 5.0 vs my 4.4 also so its still a win. I'm not worried about worth in the long term, these will drop like bricks just like any BMW after 10+yrs. My biggest goal right now is simply power output potential since they're similar engines, but a $10k+ price difference.

I've been doing additional reading, we've seen S63's pushing 700hp, but I still have yet to find someone who's tried pushing an N63 to it's limits...likely because it's still a newish powerplant. JCL's link was very helpful. I've joined another forum as well, where I've found this info - BMW N63 Tuning...

I'm quite happy this day with my X5, but my friend BullKatX5 is looking very forward to finally getting her first X5, so it'll be going into good hands of a fellow automotive enthusiast.

Sounds to me you need to find a good 5.0 and have at it! :)

Glad the E53 will be taken care of.

Chris