[f1swk]

Originally Posted by mproudfoot

Try not to let other people influence the decision over which engine to get too much - it's a very personal choice and if you have test driven the 320d, you'll know whether it meets your needs or not. The 330d is great, no doubt about that but how much do you need that extra power? At the rate we're going, we'll be driving like robots soon anyway (see the recent news regarding the implementation of permanent average speed cameras up the A9 from Dunblane to Inverness).

I found the F30 320d to be as quick, if not quicker than my old E46 325i (I also had an E46 330d and 330Ci as a basis for comparison) and yes, while it doesn't sound as good, neither do any of the diesels regardless of the number of cylinders. Drive it, and if it feels sluggish to you or the sound unacceptable, the 330d is probably a better match for you, if not, you can't really go wrong with a 320d (or 325d).

the average speed cameras should fine everyone and thing that cant manage to average at least 50mph,then the accident rate would drop,but we can only hope that is what they will be used for

[mproudfoot]

Originally Posted by f1swk

the average speed cameras should fine everyone and thing that cant manage to average at least 50mph,then the accident rate would drop,but we can only hope that is what they will be used for

I don't mind average speed cams where it's, for example, temporarily protecting the workforce through some roadworks but we're talking about a permanent installation along 130 miles of road here, and some of that is single carriageway. On these stretches, trucks are limited to 40mph which makes overtaking likely.. but only as long as it doesn't psh you over your average between two sets of cameras. I know the A9 is pretty bad for accidents but there must surely be a better way of reducing these.

Anyway, we've gotten a bit off-topic here - bottom line, OP should try the 320d as per his original selection and if he likes it, great, if not there are other decent engine options available

[F30AM]

Originally Posted by johnbmw6

Fair comment, if the 320 Is all you want go for it.
I am in denial so M5 next Month and B**locks to all who are Green.

Love it!

[Englishbloke]

@Mproudfoot thanks for such a balanced response, it will probably help me sleep better! I think 320 is a better option for me at the moment. I'll miss the smoothness of 6 cylinders but I have to remember I am changing for economy! 320d is a great car, just not a sports car.

At least I've added adaptive sus (the whole point of this thread!).
Thanks for all your input though you crazy 330d mothers!

[JOHNBMWM5]

Originally Posted by Englishbloke

@Mproudfoot thanks for such a balanced response, it will probably help me sleep better! I think 320 is a better option for me at the moment. I'll miss the smoothness of 6 cylinders but I have to remember I am changing for economy! 320d is a great car, just not a sports car.

At least I've added adaptive sus (the whole point of this thread!).
Thanks for all your input though you crazy 330d mothers!

Go enjoy, you will have lots of fun in it.
Also filling up once to my four times, that should make you laugh.

[f1swk]

Originally Posted by Englishbloke

@Mproudfoot thanks for such a balanced response, it will probably help me sleep better! I think 320 is a better option for me at the moment. I'll miss the smoothness of 6 cylinders but I have to remember I am changing for economy! 320d is a great car, just not a sports car.

At least I've added adaptive sus (the whole point of this thread!).
Thanks for all your input though you crazy 330d mothers!

neither is the 330d a sports car but some spec it to be more like one,go with what you think you need and like,adaptive suspension certainly makes it more comfortable which 95% of the time is the mode it will be in

[LeedsM4]

I test drove a 335d X drive without adaptive suspension and on B roads it just felt as though the suspension couldn't keep up. The car felt to be lunging everywhere. I personally cannot handle the feeling of the car rolling around whilst the suspension is expanding/compressing in the opposite way... Especially with a big heavy 6 cylinder out front. Ordered my 335d X drive LCI with Adaptive suspension and It's the perfect option. It really allows it to be soft when in comfort on the motorway, and then stiff and responsive when pushing hard. It's worth it in the long run!

[SteveChester]

If you go x-drive don?t forget to spec up a good ladder so you can get in and out easily

[McBeemer]

Originally Posted by SteveChester

If you go x-drive don?t forget to spec up a good ladder so you can get in and out easily

One of the benefits of xdrive is that if you've left the car at home and have a parcel delivery which needs to be left somewhere ....... A most convenient & safe place is sat on top of a wheel under the wheel arch ! it's amazing what can fit there .... lawn mower, playstation