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					Originally Posted by slowlanemcvane  Remember, also, that the most important factor of what determines excellent driveability and performance is the so-called "area under the curve" of a basic horsepower and torque chart.  Peak HP and peak TQ don't mean a lot if it is a narrow band at the highest RPM, with sharp dropoffs on either side. |  Agreed.
 
It is important to compare turbocharged engines with other turbocharged engines.  The N57 diesel is listed as having full torque available from 1750 to 3000 rpm, a 1250 rpm band.  The N55 gasoline engine is listed as having full torque available from 1200 to 5000 rpm, a 3800 rpm band, ie 3 times as wide.  While the N57 has greater peak torque, which would you describe as having more drivability/flexibility?
 
With my 535i with a 6MT, I could pull away in 1st and then shift 3-5, or pull away in second and shift 4-6.  Or just go 1-4.  It would have out towed my former diesels if I could have put a hitch on it.
		 
				__________________2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White
 
 Retired:
 2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
 2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
 2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
 2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue
 
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