Finally took delivery of my 2011 335d M-Sport. It is the first (of my 7 new BMWs since 2004) that I had built exactly the way I wanted it.
I had initially wanted to get a 2010 N54 335i to replace my 08 335i Coupe. So I was really bummed out when the last one was sold as the 2011 N55 models rolled out fairly early in the year. So I briefly considered the M3, but then became intrigued with the 335d after reading the glowing reviews. The current Motor Trend 1yr review had one editor commenting that the 335d was his pick as one of the best cars on the road today.
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...rformance.html
And then I read about a clean mpg forum test on the 335i. They went from Chicago to New York (over 800 miles) and averaged close to 50mpg!
http://www.cleanmpg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=21337
I have always been one to appreciate efficiency along with performance. Which is why I have always marveled at the fact that I could get 30mpg in my 11 second 335i on a long highway trip. The 335d has been labeled by several as being the best combination of efficiency, luxury and sport that you can buy today.
As amazed as I was at the efficiency of the 335d, I found it just as shocking to see what kind of company the M3 EPA ratings are in:
14/20mpg 4.0L V8NA 414HP S65 M3
14/20mpg 6.2L V8SC 638HP Corvette ZR1
14/22mpg 4.4L V8TT 500HP Alpina B7
13/20mpg V12 TT 563HP 5445lb Rolls Royce Ghost.
Interestingly enough, if you plug the numbers in the BMW USA website, the monthly payment on a basic E92 M3 is $916/month. (36mos, 12K/yr), is exactly the same as the way I built my 335d. However, there is a $3500 ecocredit on the diesel. And the 335d is loaded for the same price of a stripped M3. But either way, I can't be happier with my decision. Just a little research will show you how much these 335d owner LOVE their cars!
Well, I was anxious to get some test numbers. I believe it is supposed to be around 14.1 at 98 mph in the 1/4 mile. I will be interested to see if the DRs can improve the torque laden launch 60' times.
Initially my plan was to pry my 08 335i sedan from my GF, and have her drive the 335d. That way I could performance prep my 08 335i sedan with all the parts from my coupe. But this diesel is so nice, I may just be borrowing it from her more than once in a while.
Edit 11/25:
The car feels very strong. I was curious to see what kind of test numbers I might get on it with some easy/mild runs:
5.2 sec 0-60 and 13.7 at 102mph,...Faster than I thought. The engine just seems so mellow, like its not even trying. I didn't even red line or give it full throttle to achieve those numbers. Just kind of taking it easy. But on the other hand...with a diesel, it might be just as fast driving it this way anyways. In fact I tried to launch in 1st gear, and the tires just spin so easily. Amazing how hard all that torque tugs through the 2nd gear launch.
A good running totally stock 335i will do around a 13.5 sec ET, so for this diesel to do 13.7 is pretty darn impressive!
These cars are geared pretty tall...80mph at 2000 rpm on the fwy.
Edit: 12/12/2010. After installing the JBD, set 2 notches above middle position. All else totally stock, full weight, including RFTs.
13.1 at 106.1 0-60 in 4.7 seconds.
Edit: 01/23/2011. After installing rear Nitto DRs. Still getting the exact same 2.0 60' times (Can't launch with too much boost or wheels spin)"
12.9 at 108.3 0-60 in 4.5 seconds.