Assistance in Selecting Between the 2017/2018 BMW 420d M Sport and 430d M Sport

[Radiantecon]

Greetings everyone,

I am purchasing my inaugural BMW next month and am deliberating between a 2017/2018 420d M Sport and a 430d M Sport. I have viewed numerous YouTube reviews and perused a considerable number of online content, yet I remain conflicted. I desire excellent fuel efficiency, hence I am committed to diesel; yet, I also seek an exciting driving experience, as I will predominantly be on rural or secondary roads. I intend to perform most of the maintenance on the vehicle myself; wish me luck, as I have heard it can be quite challenging.


My present vehicle has a 2008 2.0L petrol engine producing 150HP, hence either alternative will represent a significant enhancement.

What is the fuel efficiency in miles per gallon (MPG) for mixed out-of-town and B-road driving? Is there a substantial distinction between the 2.0L and 3.0L engines?

Is the 420d enjoyable to drive, or does the 430d provide a significantly superior experience?

What other information should I be aware of that may not be covered in reviews or general information?

I anticipate your insights.

[MamaKiddo]

Both are commendable; nevertheless, the six-cylinder 430d is in a distinct category. Efficient, rapid, and only little less fuel-efficient. For me, the driving experience is far superior with the six-cylinder diesel engine.
Salutations

[Radiantecon]

Thank you for your response. The prevailing consensus indicates that the 430D is a more sophisticated vehicle. Opinions on xDrive versus regular drivetrain?

[Syncephe]

The six-cylinder engine is far more refined and powerful; but, the N57 is prone to bottom-end damage, which may be rather expensive to repair. As the engine ages, its prevalence is increasing.
The four-cylinder engine will be the B47, which has demonstrated greater reliability than its N47 predecessor.


I recommend test-driving the 420d with the ZF8 automatic gearbox to assess its performance, as it is not a sluggish vehicle.

[Radiantecon]

Thank you for the counsel.

I am eager to test drive both models; however, they are difficult to locate locally with the appropriate year, specifications, and miles. I prefer not to test drive a vehicle in which I lack genuine purchasing intent. I will likely travel south to procure one and return if everything is OK.


In addition to evident concerns such as knocks or wobbles, what specific indicators should I observe or auditory cues should I heed during the test drive to identify potential faults with these vehicles?

[Adv3nture]

The 3LT is indisputably superior, however specifications are crucial based on individual preferences.

[Radiantecon]

M Sport Plus, preferably with an automatic gearbox, however I will accept the M Sport variant with Harman Kardon speakers. Is there anything else I should specifically be seeking?

[Meltarb]

Avoid non-X drives; they exhibit several issues and are subpar overall.Not effective in snow, indeed.As Johnny states, the N57 is less reliable. I have consistently preferred a six-cylinder engine over a four-cylinder. However, aside from requiring a new chain at about 100,000 miles, the N47/B47 would be my preferred option.

[Radiantecon]

Indeed, it aligns with my understanding of the xDrive; hence, I will certainly opt for the standard option. Thank you!

[Uneripty]

I currently possess a 420i, however I have been provided with a 420d six-speed manual loan vehicle for two weeks while my previous E92 is being fixed by the insurance company.
I remember driving the 420d, which had considerable torque, and I certainly tested the car at every red light. That was my first experience driving a diesel vehicle, which differed significantly from driving a petrol one.


If you seek a vehicle for commuting and daily use with little operating expenses, the 420d is suitable; it is unremarkable compared to my 420i but offers slightly more torque. However, if you desire enhanced performance, consider the six-cylinder option.

I would personally refrain from opting for X-drive unless absolutely necessary, as it introduces a another potential failure point as the vehicle ages. There are already several concerns associated with an older BMW.

[Radiantecon]

How do you determine the fuel efficiency of the 420i? I contemplated acquiring it, but the majority of reviews indicate that they are largely comparable, with the diesel variant offering slightly more power and around double the fuel efficiency.

I am now inclined towards the 6.

[Uneripty]

My driving primarily involves short excursions, such as dropping off at the station and trips to the grocery, both of which are less than a mile away. I primarily work from home, and when I commute to the office, it is merely a 15-minute journey. I am not the most qualified individual to provide fuel economy statistics.

I operate a 2.0i BMW not for enjoyment, but owing to its significantly lower operating costs compared to a Ford Mondeo, as I perform most of the maintenance and repairs myself.


If you seek a 2017-18 model, I recommend selecting a late 2017 variant. The headlight was upgraded from Xenon to LED. A cursory observation may not reveal the distinction, but the giveaway is that the Xenon features a diamond-shaped headlamp wash cover on the bumper, whilst the LED does not.

[Radiantecon]

Thank you for the information; I was unaware that they transitioned to LEDs in late 2017.

[BeardAndBeans]

Both vehicles are commendable. The 420d is the more economical option for operational expenses, while the 430d offers somewhat enhanced performance; nonetheless, it is not significantly powerful.

Locating a 420d that has been customised by an owner or searching online for a 420d Individual will provide you with the desired vehicle and greater reassurance compared to the troubles seen by the 30d at elevated mileage.

[Radiantecon]

What is regarded as high mileage for the N57 engine? Can most issues be prevented by regular maintenance?

I intend to acquire an asset valued at approximately 60,000 and likely sell it in a few years when it reaches 100,000.


Is the 57 engine unreliable, or is it merely more susceptible to problems than the 47?

Thank you

[BeardAndBeans]

I concur; high mileage is subjective and may encompass anything up to 250,000 miles, I presume. The service history is crucial; after you identify a desired vehicle, obtain the VIN and contact BMW support. They will provide you with the servicing details via email, allowing you to verify if it corresponds with the iDrive records.

Indeed, servicing nine times out of ten is crucial; nevertheless, the issue lies in BMW's imprudent extended mileage oil intervals, which may be acceptable for the initial years but are suboptimal. Consequently, even with 100,000 miles on the odometer, individuals erroneously believe that changing the oil every 13,000 to 18,000 miles is adequate. If an individual has performed the servicing themselves, there may be concerns regarding their use of appropriate oil or opting for inferior products from discount retailers, necessitating the examination of invoices.