4.6is or 4.8is
 

Gang,
I'm thinking of trading my X5 4.4i sp for a 4.6is or 4.8is. I've found some that are worth considering, but the better deals are usually on the 4.6's. Does anyone have any practical experience on why you would chose one over the other?

The both seem equally well loaded, and I don't think the hp difference is all that much (10 hp, I think?), which I could get back with a couple of mods. My '01 has been great, but after thinking of the mods I would do to my 4.4i, I think it's probably cheaper just to start with the 4.6 or 4.8.

Any recommendations? There's a lot to choose from out there!

Regards,
Scott

With the 4.8is you will get the facelift look, X-Drive, and the valvetronic engine. While it may not have all that much more HP, I believe the gas mileage is much better on the 4.8 versus the 4.6.

If I found a deal I couldn't pass up on a 4.6is then I'd probably go that route. Otherwise, I think I'd be looking for a 4.8is.

If you can spend the extra money go with the 4.8. Its got the new frontend and lights, Although it only has an extra 15 hp. It feels like alot more than that becuase its got the new 6 speed auto tranny which makes a big difference and also air suspension which the 4.6 did not have. And also it gets much better gas mileage than the 4.6 because of valvetonic. But if you are looking to save some mony go with the 4.6is. Almost forgot about the Xdrive which is alot better than the original fwd the 4.6 has

Well, since the production of the 4.6 ceased, wouldn't that mean aftermarket parts would be harder to find?

I totally agree.The 4.6 would have to be a lot cheaper than the 4.8 to be worthwhile!Even in the States,I dont think these two are in the same price league?I would only buy a 4.6 if I couldnt afford a 4.8.Here in Europe,used 4.8s are very rare!
Whichever you choose,they are both excellent.

i think the old rule to buying any pre-owned car is "buy the newest, lowest mile, best example of the car that you can"...

This is a very broad question and the answer depends on how much you want to spend. If money is not an issue of course get the brand new 4.8is. Like the others said if you can't afford a 4.8 then get a used 4.6 either '02 or '03. What about a lightly used, face-lifted '04 4.4i?

breytonx5, Are you talking about selling yours?

I did contemplate a little since I've had my eyes on the Range Rover sport. But know what i've always loved the X5 and I've put too much junk into mine to let it go. I'll hang on to it until next generation. :thumbup:

How much better gas mileage do they get?

There's a bunch of things that are leaning me in that direction:
20 inch wheels
is body kit
Nav
Upgraded sound
More HP
Little more exclusivity (yes, it matters to me)

It seems that there are a bunch of either out there to choose from, but the dealers are holding the 4.8's ransom. You're right about the face-lift though, it will make the car a little fresher longer.