200 0r 300tdi

Klipdrift · Jul 20, 2009

I'm planning on buying a Discovery to use as an expedition vehicle from the UK to SA. From a motor reliability aspect as well as which of the 2 motors is the eisier to work on/repair in Africa?

Any input will be appreciated.

sambodisco · Jul 20, 2009

200s are a stronger engine in my opinion, im sure others will agree.

Paul D · Jul 20, 2009

I have no experience of 200's. so I'd say based on my own vehicle that a 300 engine seems to me to be bulletproof, given regular, reasonable, maintenance. Bought mine at 55k six years ago, now on 22k with no major problems apart from a rear diff, and blown radiator (my fault).

thebiglad · Jul 20, 2009

I reckon both engines are good, each having it's own pros and cons.

However, TDi 200 is now getting quite long in the tooth and some spares, notably cylinder heads are becoming difficult to get hold of.

Tdi 300 on the other hand is really coming into it's own, spares-wise, so I would reccomend this engine for your project.

Just make sure you get a TDi 300 from a manual-gearbox car, otherwise the engine from an autobox has electronics on it that add unnneccesary complications. Alright as a road-car, but not so good as an expedition vehicle.

ratty · Jul 20, 2009

Both engines are as good as each other. If I was in your shoes I'd see what comes up at the right price. A 200tdi disco may be difficult to come by without a lot of tin worm.

Klipdrift · Jul 20, 2009

Thanks guys I appreciate the responses. I think for my purposes i'm going to opt for the 300. At least neither of the two have the complicated electronics etc and most bush mechanics can get around them without too much confusion. Is it fair to say the 200 is the more economical engine?

ratty · Jul 20, 2009

Klipdrift said:
Thanks guys I appreciate the responses. I think for my purposes i'm going to opt for the 300. At least neither of the two have the complicated electronics etc and most bush mechanics can get around them without too much confusion. Is it fair to say the 200 is the more economical engine?

there's not a lot between the two in either performance or fuel economy. The 300tdi is a bit quieter though.

TheMunster · Jul 21, 2009

I'd go 300tdi, in a couple years time you'll be really struggling for spares for a 200tdi as well as the difficulty of getting a decent 200tdi disco that isn't made of rust.

dr pepper · Jul 21, 2009

I am fitting a 300tdi in my series landy, simply because I couldnt get hold of a 200 that wasnt knacked, which says something, they are a good motor just that most out there are well used.
My opinion is that rover learned all the weak points on the 200 and ironed them out with the 300.
Spares are not expensive and readily available.

200 0r 300tdi

Klipdrift

New Member

sambodisco

New Member

Paul D

Old, nackered 'n broke, but the Landy is fine . :)

thebiglad

Well-Known Member

ratty

I'm not special I'm limited edition

Klipdrift

New Member

ratty

I'm not special I'm limited edition

TheMunster

Active Member

dr pepper

New Member

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