4X4 question = G class diesel, 320 cdi? or 400 cdi?

[erics]

A good friend of mine is very close to buying one of these rarities (the swb convertible version).

I am trying to help her out.

The 320 cdi is the latest version (2006/07/08), apparently it is more modern and drinks less fuel. But it has a smaller capacity, and is 6 cylinder only.

the 400 cdi is old (2004/05), it is a v8 diesel engine and apparently drinks a lot more and is more fragile.

The latter is cheaper by about 10-15% in mainland Europe, but could be more expensive to run.

Would really appreciate some feedback on these...

Thanks,
Eric.

[Parrot of Doom]

The 320CDi is AFAIK an evolution of the OM606 engine used in my car. They are very, very reliable - although I can't vouch for things like the common rail system.

There is an E300TD pootling around somewhere with around 450,000 miles on the clock, and no major engine work.

[Piginapoke]

Had a 320 SWB as a loaner for a week from dealer. Have to say not impressed- ride was awful (made me feel sick actually) Noisy at speed and the engine never got above 25 mpg. I would pass.

[erics]

was it the 320 diesel engine that you drove, or the old 320 petrol one?