Hi there, I have a X3 E83 3.0ltr D sport Auto 216bhp, 160kw on a 05 plate, can anyone help with my shock absorber question, which is why is there so many different OEM numbers on the shocks, what’s the difference between them all, are they compatible between different specs & engine type of X3, & how come my shocks on my car at the moment are the same OEM number which if fitted to the 2.0 petrol version???

Morning William

As far as I am aware (but then I am an old bloke !!) there are only 2 shock absorber types Sport and Standard, Sachs were the OEM supplier 

As the shocks control bump and rebound I can see that they may be common across the range. It would make sense that the spring rates would be different due to the different weight of the engine. The anti roll bar is probably different between standard and sport suspension.as well.

Have you checked www.realoem.com ? Put the last 7 digits of your Vin into the search box it will bring up your model 

Hope that I haven't confused things more

Dave