Buying an 2006 e86 3.0si coupe

[Sam4090]

Yeah initially I was interested in a manual, however the fact that they are around £2k+ more helped me settle for an auto lol. And also the fact that I’ll be using the z4 as a daily driver so an auto would most likely be more comfortable when commuting.
One other question I have is regarding the engine. I’m aware that the later models have the N52k engine as opposed to the N52 in the car I’m looking at. Just was wondering if there’s much point holding out for a later model with the N52k, or if there’s not enough of a difference between the two.

[Sam4090]

Yeah initially I was interested in a manual, however the fact that they are around £2k+ more helped me settle for an auto lol. And also the fact that I’ll be using the z4 as a daily driver so an auto would most likely be more comfortable when commuting.
One other question I have is regarding the engine. I’m aware that the later models have the N52k engine as opposed to the N52 in the car I’m looking at. Just was wondering if there’s much point holding out for a later model with the N52k, or if there’s not enough of a difference between the two.

[Sam4090]

One other question I have is regarding the engine. I’m aware that the later models have the N52k engine as opposed to the N52 in the car I’m looking at. Just was wondering if there’s much point holding out for a later model with the N52k, or if there’s not enough of a difference between the two.

[Sam4090]

One other question I have is regarding the engine. I’m aware that the later models have the N52k engine as opposed to the N52 in the car I’m looking at. Just was wondering if there’s much point holding out for a later model with the N52k, or if there’s not enough of a difference between the two.

[Mr Tidy]

Here's a link to a thread about the differences between the N52 and N52k:- viewtopic.php?t=105709&start=45

My first Z4 was built in October 2006 so had the later "black-top" N52k but my next one was built in August 2006 so had the earlier "silver-top" non-k version.

To be honest there really was no detectible difference in how they drove or performed. The reason is a long story but only 1 full day passed between them so I would have noticed any difference.

I saw the N52k apparently had a revised water pump - but in my case it wasn't improved! The pump on my N52k engine died at 60K miles but my non-k engine seemed to be on the original pump when I sold it on 91K miles.

Both my 100+k mile 3 Series had the early engine. I wouldn't bother which version a car had, condition and history are far more important.

[Sam4090]

Ok that’s very helpful to know, I’ll check out the link.
Thanks a lot

[Wildfire]

I got my Coupe in 2012 with the intention of shifting it on in 2 years. Still have it and the only thing that would tempt me would be a 35is or F-Type Coupe, if I had the money. With cost of living etc.

Anyhow I digress. I went on condition that I inspected and not service history, check the car for dings and dents, check the tail gate for rust underneath it, drive the car down the road in the left had lane and make sure tramlining isn't terrible. When the wishbones go, they car sways badly. Also check for the juddering on the brakes. My coupe has been through discs and callipers (I think possible due to lack of use), the water pump and stat went on mine at around 70k (N52k engine), check the AC properly and all the lights etc.

I've had it 10 years now and still really enjoy it. This year will bring a wheel refurb.

[raymond.harper]

I know the vanos system can need work so see if this has been carried out.