Go with 2006 4.8is. I have owned a fully loaded 4.4 and 4.8is and test drove the 2007 4.8i. The 4.8is is the best. The 2007 4.8i is more like a 4.4i(not as sporty) and 4.8is sounds like a beast.

100% agree :thumbup:

i just bought a 2002 same mileage. They are great cars.

My recommendation is to find a good independent mechanic or shop. You will spend money maintaining any used car. If you liek the car and got a good deal, keep it and just maintain it.

Being in teh business I can tell you that you will spend money on any car out of warranty.

If you want more power, you can add a VF blower and be faster then the 2.6 or 4.8 for less money then the swap to the newer car.

BTW, I am a BMW tuner (evosport) and all of my personal cars are used (02 M3, 02 X5 and 99 MZ3). Used cars are gems (especially at the prices they are now).

Thanks
Brad

BTW, being in the business, I will tell you NEVER buy a first model year BMW! Buyer beware!

The 4.8is is a harder edged vehicle, I suspect even than the new e70. And I will echo those who have said avoid any manufacturers first year high technology vehicles, especially sadly it seems, the german ones. The 04 first year Touaregs and Cayennes were nightmares. Ask me how I know.
Drive a 4.8is, you will either love it or you'll decide to wait. I really like my 4.8is, feels like a sport sedan instead of a truck with very quick reflexes. Plus it sounds just awesome, deep and powerful.

I love my '06 4.8. I went from an 4.4 to a 4.8 and although the difference in engine size is slight, the overall package of the 4.8 is just awesome. IMO, I would stay away from the E70 for at least the first year to let the factory work out all the bugs.

Model Releases
 

Mate

I would always purchase the last edition of a particular model in preference to a new release. I didnt abide by this hard earned philisophy when I bought my second hand 4.4L X5 and have paid for my mistake.

Personally I dont think BMW practices sufficient research and development to ensure their vehicles are compatable with climatic conditions outside of the Continent. The only way vehicles become more robust to conditions experienced in the US and Australia is by feedback from customers based in these countries. This communication doesnt come into full effect until the later versions of models are on the market.

This unfortunately applies to all vehicle manufacturers there have been plenty of lemons produced in this country that I could reflect on.

Good Luck

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