****** Interested parties should note, this vehicle was subject to a CAT N insurance write off in 09/2010 ******
Highlights
• Has the same 4.4 V8 as used in the Range Rover
• Smart bodywork
• Very clean and tidy interior
The Background
The E53 X5 was BMW’s first SUV, although they called it a Sport Activity Vehicle, and was part of a new wave of monocoque shelled 4x4s, moving away from traditional body on frame SUVs and becoming more car like.
Designed by Frank Stevenson after he drew the all new Mini, and certainly one of the more attractive SUV offerings, it all but defined the segment.
The owner, a collector of classic and future classic cars, has not had this car too long and when he acquired it not much history was supplied, but he has enjoyed driving it whenever the opportunity has arisen, however with little free time and too many cars he has decided to part with this one.
In regards to the Cat-N status, the seller advises us this was due to the car hitting a fox, which required a front bumper replacement.
Being the V8 model this was always going to be a well specced example.
The tan leather seats are electric and the hide is in extremely good condition, and the dash is loaded with toys. As well as air con (not tested during the shoot), electric mirrors and sunroof, it has the high end DVD sat nav and CD multi changer.
The carpets and door cards have very few marks and the silver inserts in the dash and doors are smart and unmarked.
Overall the X5 presents very well. It has factory side steps and a tow bar has been fitted.
Generally the paint is in good condition holding a good glass and the only panel ding we noticed is on the bonnet by the grill. There are some marks in the paint in relation to its age.
Fitted with the BMW 4.4 V8, which also found its way into the Range Rover of the time, the car sounds glorious at idle and more so when revving under load. It starts easily, runs and idles smoothly and the gearbox shifts cleanly and no untoward noises from the suspension.
The engine bay is clean and there are no signs of fluid loss around the motor.
A big, good looking and practical family car with a huge boot, leather seats and lots of toys. Throw in a V8 engine and as a relatively early example of the breed it might even become a classic in its own right given time!
The X5 is not perfect but is more than just tidy and the interior is very good and a nice place to be.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the sellers discretion.
Please see our FAQ's here and our Terms & Conditions here
