Just a quick one

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Still looking for my Z3, ideally I wanted a 2.8 but they are a bit thin on the ground with what I am after colour, trim, mileage, history etc.

I have noticed a fair few 2.2 around that appear to have a good spec level.

Question is is the 2.2 in general a worse purchase power wise and reliability wise than the 2.8 (Just trying to expand options).

I did do a few thread searches but nothing was thrown up (Could be me) as I am sure it must have been asked before. Les

 

[GazHyde]

I've had my 2.2i for 18 months and I find it more than quick enough for me!

The 2.2i is about 170ish bhp, and the 2.8 about 193ish bhp (as taken from BMW published figures). So you are looking at about 20ish horses difference.

 

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Thanks for that, I guess reliability wise about the same regarding the engine ?
I know the the usual other issues with a Z3 would be the same.

 

[Cooper]

I have a 2.2 and don't know anything else. Plenty of power for me and fun to drive. It doesn't have any particular issues as almost everything is the same, 6 cylinder and all. Good cars.

 

[GazHyde]

The 2.2 engine is a variant of the BMW M54 which has 3 main guises - the 2.2, 2.5 & 3.0. Used in the Z3 (2.5 North America only) and Z4 and countless other BMW models such as the 3 & 5 series and early X3.

Stolen from Wikipedia

 

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Hi thanks to the above posts. That has given me a bit more scope to look, I am not after out & out speed (done that got the T shirt) so either should be adequate for me nowadays. I just think I have found one.... then find out its auto, not that that is also such an issue I suppose either.

 

[Lee]

@Pop-Rivet Also worth keeping in mind is the 2.8 is the pre facelift model (Older spec) and the 2.2's are facelift models (Newer spec) The newer spec interior and trim packages are generlly more pleasing on the eye and generlly have more optional extras. I've owned a 2.8 for 4 years before buying my M i have also driven the 2.2 and would say theres not much power difference. Both engines are very strong long as they have been maintained. The 2.2 suffer from using oil and more often than not the engine needs a flush out. The 2.8s also suffer with the plastic impleller on the waterpump failing although most have been changed now. But both these engines have very high reliability ratings.

Lee

 

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Thanks for that...every bit of info helps

 

[oldcarman]

@Pop-Rivet even the Massive 44- 1.9 will get you to the same place as the other Zeds on a run so find the car that's been maintained and sit in it. You'll know the one when it grabs you!! You may pass up a real good candidate by overthinking. Go get one you'll love it!! JIM

 

[Pop-Rivet]

Thanks Jim