Thread: H All! Buying a 3 or 4

Did I put this in the wrong area?

No. Probably short on responses because it's been done to death. Do a search and you will find a wealth of info. Much of it very recent.

Good luck with the search.

I would go for a 4 over a 3. Much more modern interior. Both motors have an excellent reputation. The 3.0 is obviously a bit more modern and more powerful.

Have a read through this one

What D3 to buy?

Agree with rar- D4 is magic, and I love my 3.0. The 2.7 allows 18" wheels without going aftermarket.

The D3 is still super comfy and capable- you will likely get a higher spec for the same cash as a D4, it is just a bit less plush inside.

Make sure transmission has been serviced at 80-100k intervals, and timing belts done at 180k or 7 years.
Leave a budget to refresh lower control arms and possibly air springs (or check they are done). Compressors can be a little tired, but refurb kits are available on eBay.

Service history is king - without that, walk away.

Originally Posted by Hilly

Hi Everyone,

1st time post on here as I have only just heard you guys exist.....sorry my bad. I have previous owned a D2 TD5 manual and loved it apart from when it was written off

we we have a budget of $35k and would like to know if we should aim for a low 120ks 3/4 2.7l or a higher 200ks 3.0l? And what we should look for when purchasing

Thanks in advance
Hilly

Definitely go with a D4. The 3.0 lit is the choice power plant but at 200ks make sure the bugs are ironed out. E.g. Inlet manifolds prone to cracking causing MAP sensor to go off and place car in restricted performance. Also by this time the front control arm hyrabushes will be cactus. Know this from exp. my MY12 sdv6 HSE D4 at 135000 has just had the control arms changed and having the cracked manifold replaced in a week. Btw I'll be on the market once sorted.