Re: 01..540ia vs 530ia (archive)

I have driven the X5 3.0L version and it is very smooth. While the additional HP/torque may not be that much greater than the 2.8L version, the distribution of reasonably high torque over a wider RPM range makes a bigger difference between the 2.8L version and the 3.0L version. My big concern is that the 3.0L engine is for all practical purposes a new engine, if you evaluate all the changes BMW made to go from the 2.8L to the 3.0L. And when it comes to new engines, I don't even trust BMW to pull it off without any snags in the first year.
Also, the difference in price between a 540 and a 530 looks big starting off but if you compare equivalently equipped cars, then price difference narrows to about $7K between the 2 cars. Based on all the above, I am opting for the 540iA. You may not use the extra power always but when you need it, it is there, and boy, is it there! It is just awesome.
Best of luck, SD

Hey guys i'm new on the board.....I ordered a 01 530ia for oct production and expect delivery in late october but after reading all the posts about the 530 being under powered I am reconsidering and maybe going with the 540ia. If I were to order one now when would I get the car? Would I get a better on a 00 540ia? Thaks for the help, Gary

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