I never bought an E90 3er....
Why
1. Price, they are dear on the second hand market
2. Scared of N47 timing issues and wanted a newer sub 4r old car
3. Didn't want a larger engined 330d to get away from timing gear.
So what I buy
A C220cdi auto estate thats on an 09 reg, last of the non pre blue efficiency. No DPF, no DMF's, just a tried and tested motor with a tried and tested box tied up to a RWD chassis.
Whats it like compared to an E903er.
Refinement, not as good.
Performance, pretty much the same. 170bhp vs 177bhp. Merc box is smoother, ZF BMW is faster shifting.
Handling. Like the BMWs, tight, precise and fun to drive. Big fun to drive.
Steering, better feedback than the BMW.
Brakes, they are fine.
Comfort, about the same as the BMW, firm but controlled.
Interior. Not as classy as the BMW nor as well appointed but IMHO the dials and driving controls are better.
Economy. Probably not as good, but tried and tested motor will present less faults than the N47 engine so its offset.
DSC_0351 by
stephentaylor4@hotmail.com, on Flickr
DSC_0350 by
stephentaylor4@hotmail.com, on Flickr
DSC_0348 by
stephentaylor4@hotmail.com, on Flickr
DSC_0361 by
stephentaylor4@hotmail.com, on Flickr
See what I mean about the dials and economy. lovely dials, ok economy.
Oh, the seats, nice cloth in the middle, leather bolsters for wear, perfect.