Originally Posted by JCL

Diesels make more mechanical noise (not music, noise) but to some fans it is music. Others call it noise. There is no correct answer to this one.

Diesels are less refined, they are a little coarser with respect to vibration, but some owners like that. They identify with Kenworth drivers. Some owners secretly wish they could have a Mack truck bulldog hood ornament.

Diesels use smelly fuel. This only matters when you fill it up, but it really matters when you spill some on yourself. You may find yourself carrying a pair of gloves for refueling.

BMW dealer technicians in North America don't know much about diesels (but they are learning more every day)

Diesels have more torque, but fewer revs.

Diesels get better mileage.

Purchase price is about a wash. There are credits to offset the higher price, and diesel fuel may be cheaper or more expensive where you live, which either makes it a better deal, or negates any fuel economy advantage. The futurists predict that diesel fuel will rise in price faster than gasoline, due to refinery capacity and higher energy content, but that is more of a guess than science. Time will tell.

It comes down to driving it, and seeing if it is for you. For all the negatives, some people love them, and that is cool. I love diesels, just not mixed together with my BMWs, which I buy in part for the refined engine note. If I was buying a one ton pickup truck, or a generator set, it would absolutely be a diesel.