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A few things:
1. If you're buying, get the 40i - the straight six b58 is much more reliable than the V8.
2. As far as power, I didn't notice much difference 0-60 (the 40i torque comes in at quite low rpms and is a little lighter) the 50i was a bit better 60-80, but that's not to say the 40i was underpowered just that I noticed more of a difference. I haven't been in a situation with my 40i where I have felt that it needed more. It's plenty quick and faster than you would need in real world driving (ie. Not tracking or racing), including merging and speeding out of unsafe situations on the highway.
3. Cost - similarly loaded M50i is about 15-20K more (though dealers are more willing to discount). But the gas mileage is another thing to consider - especially on long trips - it's a 25% improvement vs the 50i on Highway.
I went with the 40i cause saving 15-20k is cool (plus gas savings) and not worth the 10 times over 5-7 years that I would wish I had the (in my opinion) marginal extra power.
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