[lankyandy]

is there a way of telling which 3.0d engine a car has,(220hp and 240hp version) im looking at an 08 330d touring car which i believe was the change over year for the engine and was just wondering if looking at the engine would tell me. many thanks andrew

[Dan-danGT]

M57 and N57 engine number I believe. M57 is like mine 231hp and the N57 is about 09 onwards which is 240-245hp

Pretty sure I'm right with that use realoem to check engine number

[Reece]

I thought it would have been the same as the 2.0d
05-07 - 163bhp pre lci
08-09 - 177bhp pre lci
09- - 184bhp lci

Obviously the 3.0d is more power but thats how the 2 litre range is im sure the 3.0d would have changed in the same year, i know on the e60 range that the lci started in 08 so an 08 530d is the 240

[Digitalize]

The problem is there will always be crossovers. I'd say get the VIN and check.

[ed330D]

I think there is an easy way to tell which engine you have. The M57 air filter is a long cylinder that's difficult to get at, whereas the N57 air filter is a roughly rectangular affair positioned close to the RHS headlight, and very easy to get at. See realoem for diagrams.

[lankyandy]

Thanks for that.I was hoping for something simple like the engine cover or airbox.

[Dan-danGT]

out of curiosity what does it matter? there both bloody quick for diesels?

[lankyandy]

Jus slightly better mpg n performance. Also just nice to know what your buying.

[Drrncour]

Ask to see the log book book when you look at the car. The power and engine type will be on the middle left page.

[Reece]

Tbh if the owner cant tell you then thats a bit worrying

[Pumper]

Just go to http://www.bmwarchive.org/vin/bmw-vin-decoder.html and you'll find all the info you need by entering the last 7 digits of your VIN.

[lankyandy]

Thanks for all advise it's solved the problem for me.