Techno79

From various searches on these forums, I've found out there was a model change sometime around 2005. The only change I can figure out during this update was that the Start/Stop button was introduced. I'm specifically interested in the diesel models (and more specifically 535d M Sport):

Just to clarify, this model change is not referring to the LCI update as this is prior to that (LCI was in 2007 AFAIK).

Thanks

AlwynMike

I could be wrong here, but I think the change was September 2005.
The 530d and 535d had slightly different engines fitted after that date, which produced more power. I think the 535d went from 268 to 272bhp. (530d was 214 to 231bhp)
The Start button is a quick way of differentiating the engines with greater output.

Mike

Techno79

Is it accurate to say then that 05 plates were almost definitely the older spec, 55 may or may not be the newer spec and 06 is almost definitely the newer spec??

MacSid

AlwynMike is right on the money. The updated engines started hitting the showrooms around Sept/Oct 2005 and brought in a number of changes:

- Most engines' bhp went up.
- Start/stop button was introduced.
- Emissions went down quite a bit - the updated D engines were the first ones to meet Euro-4 norms.
- On the Diesels, the curved-down tailpipes were replaced by straight chromed ones ala the petrol engines.

I'm not sure if the 535d ever had the curved-down tailpipes, but the rest of the diesel range definitely did.

Don't know what the changeover dates are for the 05, 55 and 06 plates in the UK. My car is a MY2006 530d, but manufactured on 13-Oct-05 and registered in early Nov-05, and it sports the updated engine.

smarty156

I have a 2004 530D E61 and my manual (and V5 registration document) both say it meets Euro 4. Emissions did go down though (and mpg went up quite a bit).
Also, my exhaust pipes are straight chromed ones. I believe this denotes that they have the Diesel Particulate Filter (which I also believe is needed for Euro IV compliance).
Other than that I believe the rest is correct. If you can afford it get one with the newer engine as they are more powerful but also more economic.

hondik

Hey! My car is April 2005! Does it mean I have only 268bhp? Damn I knew it feels slow! I still have the key-old school-starting. If I don't switch to a newer one, I may definitely chiptune it.

///MrSingh

I have noticed the exact same thing whilst searching for E60's
One thing I do know though is that the straight chrome pipes came about before March 05 - I have seen 54 plate cars with the chrome pipes

Was there anything specification wise changed during the change of engines? (Apart from the engine obviously )
I only say this, as I have noticed the pre-LCI 535d comes with the advanced air conditioning as standard, but the LCI cars the 535d AND the 530d come with the advanced air con as standard