OM606 vs OM613 vs OM648

Hello everyone,

My name is Ewoud. I am from the Netherlands and I registered my account today. I have got a beautiful idea for my next car. I am planning on putting a reliable and powerful Mercedes engine in a > 40 year old Jaguar XJ. This way, I can drive tax free and comfortable.

However, because I would want to have 300 HP and 500 Nm, I find it difficult to make the right engine choice. The standard power output of the engines is:
-OM606 3.0l 177 HP / 330 Nm
-OM613 3.2l 197 HP / 470 Nm
-OM648 3.2l 204 HP / 500 Nm

The biggest difference between the OM606 and the OM613/OM648 is the CDI system. Because of the direct injection system, it is easier to tune then. The OM648 delivers around 240 HP and 570 Nm after chiptuning. Maybe this is already enough for me.

I have already done a lot of research using google and to the best of my knowledge the OM606 appears to be the most reliable engine. I am having some doubts about the other engines.

The motor I will buy will probably already have done around 300.000km. I am planning on using the car/motor for at least another 8 years. I am driving about 50.000km per year. For that reason reliability is the most important aspect for me.

The biggest disadvantage about modern engines are the EGR and other environmental systems. Because of that I am hesitant on buying the OM613 or OM648. Because my car will be over 40 years old on paper, I do not have any environmental restrictions. I am therefore able to disable the environmental systems. (1) Is that easy to do and is it beneficial for the reliability of the engine?

(2) In your opinions, what do you think is the best motor for me and why?

Priorities:
#1 Reliability
#2 Fuel efficiency
#3 At least 200 HP (and > 400 Nm), but I would prefer 300 HP (and > 500 Nm)

I am looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

Regards Ewoud

 

Up?