BMW 130i N52b30 versions

[agusszalai]

Hello, as you all know there is a 130i and a 130i LCI. The engine cover of one of them is grey, and the other one is black.
My question is, there is a myth going on that one has 258hp and the other one has 265hp, which one is which?
Also, do you know any mayor diferences, rather than esthetics and the diferent center panel? thanks!!!

[RotaryVamp]

Hello, I believe the earlier engines had a better power output due to different emission limitations. Here you can check the different versions https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_N52
Regarding the differences, they are mainly aesthetics (front grille shape, bumper, rear lights, side mirrors...)

[Bli]

The earlier engines have a higher power rating.

In terms of aesthetics, if you can live without hydraulic steering, the LCI interior is much improved.

[ptpending]

there were LCI versions with hydraulic steering

[moebiuz]

Originally Posted by ptpending

there were LCI versions with hydraulic steering

This. My 2008 130i has hydraulic steering and has the black engine cover and plastic valve cover.

From what I know, the black engine is a little more reliable than the first version of the N52, which tends to leak more oil. On the other hand, PCV valve is a known issue on the black one, which is tedious and more expensive as it is integrated so you have to change the entire valve cover. Still..... I love my E87!