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Old 30th October 2015, 10:00 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Adrian E View Post
A cheap D3 has the potential to be a money pit if it's cheap because it's been abused.
You see, this is where I disagree.... They don't die easily. Not even at high mileage.

The D3's generally, just keep on going. Badly looked after ones have tired interiors, drinks spilled on the MMi's breaking the buttons, or the classic MMI screen that's been man handled and doesn't open/close due to broken cogs. Both are quite easy DIY fixes.

Electric park brake on the rear is a common, but easy replacement, and even the air suspension is generally very reliable and not that horrific if it fails.

The 4.0 Tdi is to be avoided, and the W12/S8 come with running costs you'd expect with those sort of engines but the 3.0 Tdi. 4.2Tdi and 4.2 petrol are pretty dam solid engines.

But most importantly, I can count on 1 hand the number of complete gearbox or engine failures I've seen.

So, I will say that if you're looking for more guaranteed longevity, the D3 is probably the better investment.

Driveability however is very different. The 6 speed bullet proof auto on the D3 is guaranteed a sport mode and the extra cogs give better mpg overall. The D3 chassis is noticeably stiffer in construction with less pieces and fewer welds. The D2 sports seats are awesome, but the D3 ones are better.

But the D3 does come with air suspension. And I don't like that. Its the main reason I wont go back to a D3 at the moment as it does numb the handling somewhat, even though it has lots of advantages for raising up over bumps / snow / rough terrain. A D2 with regular springs / shocks (that aren't tired) will likely handle far better.

It really depends on how much motorway vs B road action you're expecting...
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