I'm pretty sure I'm right when I say the 35d is quicker than the 4.8. -- from 0-30MPH in 2.0 sec for 35d vs 2.6 sec for 4.8; by 60MPH they're about even, the 35d an edge ahead. Let's assume they're the same - empty. Load them up with people or stuff and the 425 ft lbs of torque in the 35d won't notice much. Also consider the emissions issue - 35d is way more green and a better choice for us who insist on driving an SUV. 4.8 makes no sense to me anymore when you have equal or better performance in a greenish beemer.

DSE, I think you are right about the sports button affecting the throttle. Without the button depressed, the acceleration seems smoother (more of what I am looking for from the car) though slightly slower than with the button depressed.

I've always thought the button only affects the tightness of the suspension, which is very noticeable.

I like the throttle response of the button depressed, but the firmness of the suspension with the button pressed.

I'm gonna drive with the button depressed for a week to see if this is just all in my head or actually the case.

I went in the BMW accessory catalog. It does state that self leveling is required for the 128 wheels, but not for the other 21" styles. I wonder why this is. Anyone not have the 3rd row seat with the 128 installed?

It MAY have to do with the offsets on the 128 wheels (e.g. they may get too close to the normal suspension parts but fit nicely with the self leveling suspension parts).

Funf Dreisig

Thanks Fun. That makes sense.

I stopped by my local dealer yesterday. The parts guy had no clue about the self leveling requirement of the 128. But he was more than happy to sell them to me for $6700 (like I'd pay that price). He looked into it and confirmed that the self leveling is a requirement for only this wheel style. He has no idea why.