The initial motor in the E90 320d & 120d was an upgraded 115kW version of the M47 motor found in the E46 in 100 & later 110kW formats...BUT, & this a big BUT, without the high altitude turbo failure problems that plagued but were apparently finally solved on the E46 320d's. The 125kW ally block N47 replaced the iron block M47 and was later upgraded to 130kW & in the case of the very latest E90's & 5 Series models only, 135kW. BMW recommends 50PPM diesel on the newer models though, so my advice would be to try and avoid the 500PPM stuff.///M_POW said:
Similar story with the E46 & E90 330d's. The 135kW, 150kW, 160kW & 170kW were basically different versions of the same motor, with the latest 180kW LCI model having an all new engine though.
I think you mentioned something about the 150kW 23d motor found in the X1? That's the very same twin turbo version of the 2.0l N47 motor that is also found in the 123d & Alpina D3 overseas.
As for reliability, the workshop foreman at my dealership told me completely out of the blue once, that he really loves the current 120d's & 320d's since they never give any problems & in his opinion are the most reliable BMW's around, far removed from the E46 days apparently. I pray that his words hold true.
If you want something just a little bit different that will stand out from the crowd, have a look at a 120d Coupe M Sport or a 320d Touring M Sport. I've seen some of those made out to look pretty hot. Granted they will be different to the old E36 M3 but they will grow on you & the much greater refinement, safety kit & fuel economy of a more modern car will eventually win you over in a daily driver at least. Just my 2c.
