Difference between 3.0i and 3.0 si E85

[krusty]

I have come across a US 2006 E85 Roadster ... with the new updated front and rear bumpers / tail lights ext ... but on the side panels, it has:

3.0 i metal stickers on the side

... NOT 3.0si. Here, in Australia, only the 3.0si was sold in the 2006 to 2008 years ... but according to wiki, in the US:

3.0i 2006–2008 N52B30 2,996 cc (2.996 L; 182.8 cu in) I6 218 PS (160 kW; 215 hp)@6250 250 N·m (180 lb·ft)@2750
3.0si 2006–2008 N52B30 2,996 cc (2.996 L; 182.8 cu in) I6 265 PS (195 kW; 261 hp)@6600 315 N·m (232 lb·ft)@2750

Anyone know what the differences were between the 3.0i and 3.0si?

[Huz-Z]

If you have the VIN you can do a VIN search to see if someone improperly rebadged the car.

[gas-can]

3.0si has

255hp engine
sound generator
exhaust tips
more standard goodies
Lower final drive ratio

3.0i has
215 hp engine (same engine as 255 - just less angry tune & no 3 stage intake)
Slightly higher final drive ratio

Quite frankly, if it really is a 3.0i and it looks great, I'd go for it (full disclosure: I did). Not much difference in feel from the 255... and if you are so inclined, you can very easily get a 3 stage intake from a x5 or 330i + a tune to bring it up to spec.

-gc

[WAMz4]

I have owned both a 2004 3.0i and 2006 3.0si The torque is higher on the 2006 3.0si resulting in smoother acceleration at lower revs. The 3.0i acceleration tends to "kick in" at around 3000 rpm with a noticable jerk. Suspension was also inproved on the 3.0si resulting in slightly softer ride, but realy not noticable.

[3002 tii]

Originally Posted by WAMz4

I have owned both a 2004 3.0i and 2006 3.0si The torque is higher on the 2006 3.0si resulting in smoother acceleration at lower revs. The 3.0i acceleration tends to "kick in" at around 3000 rpm with a noticable jerk. Suspension was also inproved on the 3.0si resulting in slightly softer ride, but realy not noticable.

You're comparing m54 vs n52.