Miniature of a Head Gasket for BMW N47

BMW N47 Keychain

Introduced in 2007 as the successor to the M47, the BMW N47 shaped an entire generation of engines. With common-rail direct injection, turbocharging and outputs ranging from 115 to 218 hp, it covered an enormous range of applications. It appeared in almost every BMW model line, from the compact E81/E87 1 Series and popular E90 3 Series to the E60 5 Series, X1, X3 and Z4. Few diesel engines were used more widely in the late 2000s.

The N47 also brought several technical firsts. It was the first BMW four-cylinder engine to come with a start-stop system as standard, while its BluePerformance particulate filter technology set new standards for emissions and helped pave the way for Euro 5. With its two-stage turbocharging, the top-spec 123d was the world's most powerful production four-cylinder diesel at the time, showing that efficiency and driving enjoyment could go hand in hand.

The N47 also played an important role internationally. In markets such as Italy and the UK, where diesel engines were especially popular, it helped strengthen BMW's position. Its combination of efficiency and strong torque also made it a favourite for fleet vehicles. Yet its success came with a well-known drawback: the notorious timing chain issues made the N47 one of BMW's most debated engines.

Despite these weaknesses, the N47 is now recognised as an important step towards the later B47, which improved on many aspects of its predecessor while building on the same technical foundations. The N47 represents an era when diesel engines were at their peak, before market conditions began to change.

This keychain, shaped like the N47 head gasket, pays tribute to that chapter of BMW history. It makes a distinctive gift for BMW fans, engineering enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate both the strengths and the quirks of this engine. Made in Germany, it features exceptional detail and careful finishing for a satisfying feel and an elegant brushed surface.