M21D24 (246DA / 246DB) — 2.4L Naturally Aspirated Diesel (1985-1991)
- Power Output
- 86 bhp / 63 kW at 4,600 rpm
- Years Fitted
- 1985-1991
- Engine Code Variants
- M21D24 (246DA), M21D24 (246DB)

BMW 324d SPECIALISTS
Get quotes today from trusted UK BMW 3 Series 324d engine specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used M21 diesel engines for the E30-generation 324d - the six-cylinder diesel that started BMW's diesel success story.
How it works
Clear information first, then the right engine and specialist for your exact vehicle.
Variant History
The BMW 324d marked a milestone for the 3 Series - it was the first six-cylinder diesel ever offered in a BMW 3 Series when it launched in 1985. Built on the E30 generation, the 324d used BMW's M21 diesel engine - a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated six-cylinder that delivered 86 bhp and remarkable fuel economy for its era. Though never officially sold in the UK, a number of private imports have found their way to British roads, making the 324d a rare and distinctive classic BMW today.

M21D24, 2.4-litre naturally aspirated six-cylinder diesel (86 bhp) - E30 generation launched
1990 - M21D24 (246DA) and M21D24 (246DB) variants produced
Facelift introduced; engine unchanged
Production ends for 324d
Final E30 324d models produced
Every engine fitted to the BMW 3 Series 324d is covered below, with UK rebuilt pricing and known failure points.
Engine Codes & Pricing
Find your exact engine code, specs and UK replacement cost guide.

Can’t find your exact engine code?-> Get quotes for M21D24 BMW 3 Series 324d engine replacement
-> Get quotes for M21D24 BMW 3 Series 324d engine replacementCommon Problems
The BMW 3 Series 324d's M21D24 six-cylinder diesel is a robust, under-stressed engine from the 1980s - but age takes its toll. Timing belt failure is the single biggest risk, while injector pump leaks and cold-start issues are the most common day-to-day frustrations. Rebuilt engines through EnginesMarket include upgraded components addressing the original failure points, plus a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty.
Common failure points and repair options
The BMW 324d is a rare and distinctive piece of BMW history - the first six-cylinder diesel ever fitted to a 3 Series. With only 75,696 examples ever built and no official UK sales, every surviving 324d is a car worth preserving. Every rebuilt BMW 3 Series 324d engine through EnginesMarket comes with upgraded components addressing the original failure points, a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty, and nationwide delivery. Compare specialist prices today - and keep this classic on the road.
FAQ
Everything BMW 3 Series 324d owners usually ask before choosing a rebuilt, reconditioned or used replacement engine.
Why Choose Us
Comparing quotes for your BMW 3 Series 324d is free, quick, and completely no-obligation. Whether you need a used M21D24 for a budget rebuild or a fully reconditioned unit for a concours restoration, our network of UK specialists has the right engine for your exact 324d. Enter your registration above and start comparing today.
Compare quotes from trusted UK BMW 3 Series 324d engine specialists with warranty-backed rebuilt, reconditioned and used options nationwide.