E90 320D, SE vs M-Sport
Discussion
The difference between them is cosmetic, but also standard equipment such as seats, lowered suspension and wider rear wheels.
I looked at a 335i SE and it was OK, but the standard seats looked naff and were not that supportive. I thought it looked quite plain inside, but I liked the subtle exterior.
I then looked at (and bought) an M Sport. It looked better outside as it has a more purposeful look to it, but it was inside that really seemed like a different car. The dark headlining and sport seats make it quite dark inside, which actually serves to give a sense of the interior enveloping you, which I liked. Some find it too dark however and would possibly describe it as dreary. I admit that the iDrive also helped lift a plain looking interior.
Some SE models have better spec than the one I saw, but the Sport seats are a must if you can. Leather seats helps it feel nicer, but the alcantara is very nice too.
If you can stretch to an LCI (September 2008 on) you'll end up with a better looking car, but also better riding too.
Not sure which year was best for the 320d engine wise, although my brother in law has a 2007 177ps engine and it seems to be running well at 80k miles. It feels quite punchy, but its no 6pot, so I would look at a 325d or even a 330d if that is a possibility for you.
I looked at a 335i SE and it was OK, but the standard seats looked naff and were not that supportive. I thought it looked quite plain inside, but I liked the subtle exterior.
I then looked at (and bought) an M Sport. It looked better outside as it has a more purposeful look to it, but it was inside that really seemed like a different car. The dark headlining and sport seats make it quite dark inside, which actually serves to give a sense of the interior enveloping you, which I liked. Some find it too dark however and would possibly describe it as dreary. I admit that the iDrive also helped lift a plain looking interior.
Some SE models have better spec than the one I saw, but the Sport seats are a must if you can. Leather seats helps it feel nicer, but the alcantara is very nice too.
If you can stretch to an LCI (September 2008 on) you'll end up with a better looking car, but also better riding too.
Not sure which year was best for the 320d engine wise, although my brother in law has a 2007 177ps engine and it seems to be running well at 80k miles. It feels quite punchy, but its no 6pot, so I would look at a 325d or even a 330d if that is a possibility for you.
jackatha said:
Hi guys, new to the forum!
Just after some information regarding the 320D in SE vs Msport.
what are the differences, and are they purely cosmetic based or is it more?
+What year model would be best for such a car? due to problems i've heard, the 2005-2007 models seem to be the best?
It's just my opinion , but I find SE seats awful in terms of support from all aspects and much prefer the way the sports suspension helps the M sport ride and ,when pushing on ,handle better. Just after some information regarding the 320D in SE vs Msport.
what are the differences, and are they purely cosmetic based or is it more?
+What year model would be best for such a car? due to problems i've heard, the 2005-2007 models seem to be the best?
If a prospective car you're looking at has Run flats , that will impact on ride and handling to the detriment. Both M and SE may have those.
I have no idea if there are better years for engines.
Like Mike my E90 (E92 coupe to be precise) was a 335i and I worked on the logic of buying one which had a perfect service history and had been problem free. It worked out as I ran it to 85k no problems, but for injectors.
That would be my advice , research the past and service record of the particular car you're you're considering.
I've heard nothing but bad news about 320d's. Highly recommend getting a 6-pot diesel (325d, 330d, 335d) as they're said to be much more reliable and responsive.
SE vs. M-Sport tends to be different bumpers and skirts externally, sport seats, steering wheel, and some M-badges on the trim internally. Also M-Sports tend to have firmer/lower suspension and bigger/wider wheels carrying more performance-oriented wheels.
SE vs. M-Sport tends to be different bumpers and skirts externally, sport seats, steering wheel, and some M-badges on the trim internally. Also M-Sports tend to have firmer/lower suspension and bigger/wider wheels carrying more performance-oriented wheels.
HugoFastmann said:
I've heard nothing but bad news about 320d's. Highly recommend getting a 6-pot diesel (325d, 330d, 335d) as they're said to be much more reliable and responsive.
SE vs. M-Sport tends to be different bumpers and skirts externally, sport seats, steering wheel, and some M-badges on the trim internally. Also M-Sports tend to have firmer/lower suspension and bigger/wider wheels carrying more performance-oriented wheels.
Only bad news i've read about is the timing chains.. I would love something more but insurance would murder meSE vs. M-Sport tends to be different bumpers and skirts externally, sport seats, steering wheel, and some M-badges on the trim internally. Also M-Sports tend to have firmer/lower suspension and bigger/wider wheels carrying more performance-oriented wheels.
creepy coupe said:
Just bought a 2008 E92 SE. It's specced with sports seats. wouldn't have bought it with SE seats as they don't offer any support. I am impressed with the SE suspension though. especially with the 18" runflats. It's still very compliant over rough surfaces.
what model you got? 320D or?Gassing Station | BMW General | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff