What’s everyones thoughts, experiences, preferences between the 2.5 and 3.0
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Another Newbie
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Webbo
- Newbie
- Posts: 4
- Joined: Mon Mar 02, 2020 2:32 am
Another Newbie
Hi all
What’s everyones thoughts, experiences, preferences between the 2.5 and 3.0
What’s everyones thoughts, experiences, preferences between the 2.5 and 3.0
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scootr
- Senior Member
- Posts: 1521
- Joined: Mon Sep 16, 2019 11:27 am
- Location: USA
Another Newbie
I test drove a 2.5 expecting to be under whelmed but it was seriously okay... so I searched hard for a 3.0 and I love it.
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E89 3.0L 6 MT gone
Michelin P4s
Bilstein struts & shocks
Luxon tower brace
Michelin P4s
Bilstein struts & shocks
Luxon tower brace
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Mr Tidy
- Legend
- Posts: 23800
- Joined: Wed Jul 02, 2014 12:18 pm
- Location: North West Surrey
Another Newbie
Well in simple terms I'd say always go for the 3 litre - but you did ask!
Running costs are the same as they are the same engine, just different sizes - even road tax costs the same.
I'm assuming you are referring to E85 Roadsters from 2003 to 2008. Just be aware that there was a facelift in early 2006 and the engines changed from the M54 to the N52 which was more powerful in both sizes.
M54 2.5s had 192 PS and 3 litres had 231PS. In the facelift there was a 2.5i that is best avoided as it only had 177PS. 2.5Si models had 218PS (so close to the pre-facelift 3 litre) and 3.0Si models had 265PS.
But the facelift N52 engine had a couple of idiosyncrasies, like no dipstick (you check oil level with a button on the dash) and an electric water pump which costs around £250 to replace - although they can last anywhere from 60K to 90K miles. That engine also revs a bit higher, to 7,000rpm.
The other thing that changed with the facelifts is there were 2 models, SE and Sport. The Sport models all got M-Sport seats as standard, as well as M-Sport steering wheel and suspension that sits 15mm lower. M-Sport seats are so popular that used ones fetch up to £750 a pair!
Having said all that it may depend a bit on what you are used to, and what you are looking for. Plus if there is a car near to you or one that has your ideal colour combination or options - heated seats are very popular in the Roadster for obvious reasons!
I've had a few of these engines in 3 Series and Z4s and they all seem capable of well over 100K miles without major issues so long as they get regular servicing.
I just hope that proves helpful, rather than confusing.
Running costs are the same as they are the same engine, just different sizes - even road tax costs the same.
I'm assuming you are referring to E85 Roadsters from 2003 to 2008. Just be aware that there was a facelift in early 2006 and the engines changed from the M54 to the N52 which was more powerful in both sizes.
M54 2.5s had 192 PS and 3 litres had 231PS. In the facelift there was a 2.5i that is best avoided as it only had 177PS. 2.5Si models had 218PS (so close to the pre-facelift 3 litre) and 3.0Si models had 265PS.
But the facelift N52 engine had a couple of idiosyncrasies, like no dipstick (you check oil level with a button on the dash) and an electric water pump which costs around £250 to replace - although they can last anywhere from 60K to 90K miles. That engine also revs a bit higher, to 7,000rpm.
The other thing that changed with the facelifts is there were 2 models, SE and Sport. The Sport models all got M-Sport seats as standard, as well as M-Sport steering wheel and suspension that sits 15mm lower. M-Sport seats are so popular that used ones fetch up to £750 a pair!
Having said all that it may depend a bit on what you are used to, and what you are looking for. Plus if there is a car near to you or one that has your ideal colour combination or options - heated seats are very popular in the Roadster for obvious reasons!
I've had a few of these engines in 3 Series and Z4s and they all seem capable of well over 100K miles without major issues so long as they get regular servicing.
I just hope that proves helpful, rather than confusing.
Coupes because stunning!
Current - Silver Grey MC, Imola Red heated Nappa & carbon trim. Aeros, H & R Coil-overs, 224s, OE Strut brace, Nav, cup-holders, DSP Hi-Fi, pdc, cruise, MFSW, no CDV! E90 330i daily
Gone - Montego Blue
Gone - Ruby Black
Current - Silver Grey MC, Imola Red heated Nappa & carbon trim. Aeros, H & R Coil-overs, 224s, OE Strut brace, Nav, cup-holders, DSP Hi-Fi, pdc, cruise, MFSW, no CDV! E90 330i daily
Gone - Montego Blue
Gone - Ruby Black
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buzyg
- Legend
- Posts: 26516
- Joined: Fri May 20, 2011 6:11 pm
- Location: Cornwall
Another Newbie
The 2.5 ltr cars are fine Zeds especially after face lift. The general consensus though is you get more horses and similar economy and running costs from the 3ltr E85's. So why would you. 
