+1 :thumbup:

Seeing as the weights are really different.. I assume with a good tune, the power:weigth rate can equal or surpass the 4.8i.

3.5i:
Pros: Good looking (IMO good money spent if you get the Sport Activity), I6, economic, Post facelift, Many more standard options, New Idrive, Lots-o-torque

Cons: No v8 roar, tunes arn't free

4.8i:
Pros: V8 rumble (flutter in my mind),

Cons: Pre-Facelift, Areo pack is pricy, Old Idrive (if pre 10')

IMO: the 3.5i Sport Activity is the Best Bang or Buck. my 2c (With a good tune performance could be near 5.0 status)

If your all uppity about the exhaust tips, IRRC the Msport shares 5.0i tips.

There is no replacement for displacement

:rofl::thumbup:;):cool:

Sorry, I felt they all needed to be here.

With the exception of forced induction ;)

True, there is different "better" for everyone. But for me "better" is when N55 engine provides the same WHP as 4.8 engine with lower fuel consumption and weight.

Good to hear you use the term "for me" because that's the most important part--what each of us prefers, opinions, etc--not a blanket "it's better".

Thanks everyone for the replies, there have been some good points made that I was unaware of.

I had a 4.8 for 3 years, loved every single minute of it. Test drove the 35i on several occasions before getting into the 50i.

As pointed out, there is no right or wrong choice. Both are superb vehicles. The 35i gets up and goes, give it a run yourself. I felt it was equally quick to my 4.8. The NA v8 sounds good, but lets be honest it doesn't bark. I too feel the mpg is essentially negligible, lest you opt for a 35d.

If it were me, I would go 35i without thinking twice based on the LCI fenders and the 8 speed alone. Do not make the mistake of undervaluing the 8 speed. It's that important. My 07 was so jumpy, I used to tell passengers it was the achilles heel of an otherwise sensational daily drive.

Clearly this is all my personal opinion.