Quote:
Originally Posted by speeder
...That said, I had a GF with a 6-cylinder X5 that I bought plenty of fuel for. It would not get 19 mpg if you pushed it off a cliff. That's a joke. Plus, a fair comparison from a performance/MSRP angle would be an X5d vs. a V-8 X5.......In the real world, where people buy expensive new luxury SUVs and then sell or trade them in 3 years, the diesel pays for itself completely and then some. Plus, you get to drive a modern diesel and spend a LOT less on fuel, if you actually drive the thing.  |
I doubt your GF's X5 was a new 2012 35i...you know, the one with the turbo and eight speed automatic?
EPA ratings are 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway
The turbo six 35i has 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft (typically rated conservatively)
The diesel 35d has 265 horsepower and 425 lb-ft
You think the diesel better compares to the V8 X5??!!?? You're dreaming
The V8 50i offers 400 hp and 450 lb-ft. I don't think a diesel with two less gears can overcome a 135 horsepower deficit, nor 25 lb-ft less torque. The V8 will embarass the diesel, it's a monster.
You're also completely wrong on resale. The 2012 X5 35d's bring mid-forties $$$ at auction. The 2012 X5 35i's bring mid-forties $$$ at auction. Apples to apples in every way (options, colors, miles, condition) the diesel will fetch a $1500 premium over the turbo six gas. Yet it cost $5000-7500 more initially. Great investment
If any of you don't believe me, I'll buy one for you. Money meet mouth.
And the new BMWs "recommend" premium fuel for best performance, but will happily run 87 octane regular fuel forever.