Hello!

[Alun]

Hi X5 People! 

I'm currently thinking of an X5 as my next car. I'd be looking at the E53 model as a possibility in 3.0d Sport guise.

I want to source a manual model also although I do know these are harder to find, I think i'd prefer the less hassle I might get with a non autobox. Plus I like manual transmissions.

I currently run an e34 525i Sport in Avus Blue - I don't really use it but i've had it for 3 years.

I've been in the BMW circles all my life really and the love for the cars stems from my dad having them when I was a youngster!

So! Hello and any help and advice would be great!

Cheers

Alun

[X5Sport]

And a very warm Hello to you too.....

Manual E53s are as rare as hens teeth.  I wanted one when I specced mine in 2004, but the Dealer wanted a £10k deposit in case I pulled out and he couldn't sell it.  Personally I much prefer the manual transmission too, but the market says this type of luxury car should have an Auto.  The Dealer did think that the car was likely to be 'heavy' on clutch wear, but I wasn't convinced.  There are a couple of folks on here with manual versions.

If other dealers pulled the same stunt, it's safe to say a number of Owners were 'encouraged' down the auto route....

Of course you now can't get a manual in the X5 or X6, and it might be the same on the current X3 too.

[Alun]

Thanks for the welcome buddy!

Nice line up you have yourself! so they don't even offer the manual option anymore on the new X5 and X6?

I am determined i'll get a manual e53 though, there's must be a decent ish one out there. To be honest I'd have a 3.0 - 4.8 petrol but I want it to be semi economical too - I've actually seen more manual petrols for sale, particularyl the 4.6 and 4.8 variants.

I'm not frightened of taking things apart too so a bit of work doesn't scare me if i have to do things to it, maybe not initially but over time if it needs things spanners are not a problem.

[X5Sport]

Most of the new models won't meet the Euro V emission regs with a manual, and the 8 speed auto box is sublime.  Add the flappy paddles (standard on the X6 and some E70 X5 trims) and you have even more control.

I wish you luck with your search.  It might take a bit longer but they are out there, and I'm not surprised there are more petrol manuals, it did make a reasonable difference to the economy - which is why I wanted it on my E53 X5!!

[Alun]

I'm going to have to get an auto aren't I  hehe

[X5Sport]

No!  ) )

[Alun]

haha I hope not too!

Question - if i was to go for an 05 plate model, would that be a lower tax band?

[X5Sport]

Yes. Cars registered before 23 March 2006 are the ones, so 05, 55 and very early 06 are safe.  I think the MY2005 also got a 6-sp manual instead of a 5, but it may have come in a little earlier.

Richard

[Sanj]

Welcome to the forum Alun 

Good luck with the search - manuals are rare! Hope you get one soon!

[Raj]

Welcome aboard.

I actually prefer the auto for the X5 as it really is one of those you want to not have to be too involved with if that makes sense. It's nice to just drive and relax in.

I too do like manuals though but it has to be the right sort of car for it.

Good luck with your search though.

[Cannondale]

[quote="Alun"]


I am determined i'll get a manual e53 though, there's must be a decent ish one out there. To be honest I'd have a 3.0 - 4.8 petrol but I want it to be semi economical too - I've actually seen more manual petrols for sale, particularyl the 4.6 and 4.8 variants.

[/quote]

Hello and welcome

Try an Auto you might like it I did and I was a die hard Manual fan but fancied a V8 which you can not get in manual on the E53 with a 4.8, or any of the V8,s I think? a 3.0 petrol might be the easiest manual to find.

Good luck

Richard...

[Alun]

Thanks Raj - I know what you mean and I do like autos it was just to try and avoid any gearbox problems.

Richard - I have a 525 a few years ago which was an auto, it was fine and good in morning traffic, but you can't beat the manual for me. Maybe it's the way it delivers with my current 5 and it's limited slip differential.

It's annoying as I seen plenty autos I like, eg with trim and some interior options... just worried something goes wrong with it!

[Lee4.8is]

Hello & welcome & good luck with your search for your new X5, i love manuals also but they are certainly rare in bmws full stop, unless its a 4 pot diesel, autos seem more favourable.

[Rusty]

Welcome and good luck.
I have a manual E46, so that keeps me happy, and use the X for comfort, and speed >:D

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