The BMW 324d had a six-cylinder diesel engine (M21D24) and was therefore unique in the compact class. The engine was the same as that of the BMW 524td (E28), but was a purely naturally aspirated engine without a turbocharger. Although this gave him “only” 86 hp, it was more affordable for customers in terms of price. The comparatively economical operation also suited this, to which the standard 5-speed transmission also contributed. From 1987, the sister model of the BMW 324d, the BMW 324td with turbo diesel engine, came onto the market. Both vehicles were produced in parallel until 1991. Around 97,000 BMW 324d were built over the 5-year construction period.