Hi all,

I currently own an e34 M50 and i'm in the market for an X5. Here's the specs for the two that i'm currently looking at. Hope you could help on choice.

2000 X5 4.4i - Black on Black (12/99 Build)
70,000miles
Sport Package
Interior is fairly new with no rips
From what i've noticed, it needs new boots, ball joints and some bushings need replacement.

2003 X5 3.0i - Tan Interior (3/03 Build)
50,000miles
Cold Weather Package
Interior is a bit dirty and a few scratches here and there, can't tell if it's leather or leatherette
I didn't find anything leaking from underneath.

You're thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Pat

I too am in the market for an x5.
If gas mileage is not a concern the v8 is fun to drive. I have heard that it is more to maintain. will you be towing anything?
I am looking for a 3.0 and would like to purchase the newest one I can afford. In mid 2000 I think BMW made some changes for safety reasons. You might do more research on that.
Areas to check over ... cooling system, and Trans.
Have your trusted mechanic check it over and enjoy.

Thanks a lot for the reply. I've talked with my bmw mechanic friend and he suggested the 3.0 as well. He said that definitely 4.4 will be a lot more fun especially with the sport suspension but upkeep is also higher compared to the 3.0. As for the safety issue you mentioned, I need to do research on that. I'm in no hurry to get the vehicle so I have time to keep searching until I end up with something that feels good. Also, the M54 on the X5 got on the Ward's 10 Best Engines so that's a plus on the 2003 3.0 aswell. Anyways, will surely post pics when I do get the X5. Thanks again and good luck on your search. Oh, I will not be towing anything on this bad boy as I got the defender to do that job.

Pat

I was searching for the recalls you mentioned and yes there was a lot of recalls for the 2000 X5 as shown on this link below.

http://www.automallusa.net/2000/bmw/x5/recalls.html

The 2003 X5 seems to be the better choice so guess i'll be bringing this unit in to have my mechanic do a full checkup to see what i'm up against. Thanks again for the input.

Also if you can have BMW check the service history and let you look it over or if they will give you a copy.
As far as the clean up of the interior, a soft brush and the correct cleaner will be a big plus. And I think the dealer can tell you if you have the leatherette or leather with your vin. I have the leatherette in my convertible and I love it. It is now 12+ years old and it still looks great. (135,000 miles too). I use 3m boat cleaner and treatment on my leatherette.
I have leather in several of my other cars and it is doing ok. I keep it treated and clean.
Take care