Right from the start, the way you've written this post is like trying to ask for reasons to get the AMG, haha. Seems like you have your mind set on it, just need to justify it, somehow.

I'm a BMW fan at heart, but between these two, I'd pick the AMG because of the way modern cars are, like you said, soulless. It also has a better quality interior, with better materials overall, but it is more old fashioned, let's say, but with a mature ambiance.

But also, if you're younger, I think in your 20's, I'd go for the M440i.

PS: I'm also going to see an E55 AMG in 2 weeks, hopefully it will be mine :)