Upgrade to improve handling

14thbmw · #1 05-01-2014, 09:04 AM

Ok I did a little search and got frustrated, so I'm just going to ask about upgrading my handling:

I have two X5s - a 2005 4.8is that handles like it is on rails, super sure footed and lots of grip, and a 2013 5.0i that is pretty good, but by comparison mushy and having poor cornering response.

Now the 2005 has 275/40x20 up front and 315/35x20 in back, while the 2013 has 255/50x19 all around. Both are all season, the 2013 are also RFT. The 2005 has the original (well, "serviced") air suspension, the 2013 is un-modified as well and has the sport package which may not be of any real value in the suspension (I don't recall, I bought it for the seats!).

The 2005 has a firmer ride which is more fatiguing on a long drive but more fun on a short drive, like my commute (two-lane, twisty). My wife is primary driver of 2005 and I drive the new beast mostly.

I am due for tires on the 2013 but I want to get it to where it handles much better without too much ride compromise.

So the question is, what should I do? Larger rims with lower profile tires, staggered set up, upgrade sway bar, ???

Thanks!

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1naztyx5 · #2 05-01-2014, 09:08 AM

Without going crazy, get a set of staggered 20"s along with some spacers and you will see the difference

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bawareca · #3 05-01-2014, 09:26 AM

I am in the same boat,but my worst complain is handling while towing.Lack of the SLS on the E70 is part of the problem,but not all.Another 500-700 lbs extra weight is another.I drove a friend's '12 50i with M package and it feels very close to the 4.6is/4.8is although it has only stiffer/lowered suspension,no special stuff.If you find a complete suspension from a car like that,it would work good,but you will still need the 20" wheels.
Just get a set of 20"s and see how it will feel like.Probably much better.
Putting spacers will actually make the suspension even softer.

BMW X5 · #4 05-01-2014, 09:40 AM

I had a 2002 4.4 with sport and had staggered not quite as big I think I only had 255 front/275 rear and like you said it felt planted. I now have a 2013 with M-Sport but this with 20" 275 front 315 rear. although its not as every pebble feeling like the 2002 it is certainly no disapoointing in any way. as said above get staggered it makes a world of difference. One question though why would spacers be required on this setup?

blue dragon · #5 05-01-2014, 10:08 AM

SLS plus adaptive drive would make it feel just like the 4.8is

ard · #6 05-01-2014, 12:00 PM

1. When I saw the title I though "yeah, add Adaptive Drive"...

2. Can you swap wheels? take two hours on a sat afternoon and see how the other one handles....

14thbmw · #7 05-01-2014, 01:23 PM

Thanks for the suggestions - I'm having the 2005 balanced now and will swap the wheels across beasts this weekend, then spend about a week on them to see whether that does the trick.

JCL · #8 05-01-2014, 10:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 14thbmw

Thanks for the suggestions - I'm having the 2005 balanced now and will swap the wheels across beasts this weekend, then spend about a week on them to see whether that does the trick.

Different wheel bores.