Can anyone tell me the difference between the different engines like the n14 n16 n18 what years and models were they in and what is the physical difference.

 

This came from a different forum:

QUOTE:
This is a compilation of posts from various sources around the interwebs.


N14 Engine - N14B16AC (171hp / 177 ft-lbs)
Infinitely variable single VANOS (intake only)
Siemens DME MED17.2 engine management

N18 Engine - N18B16M0 (181hp / 191 ft-lbs)
Infinitely variable double VANOS
Map-controlled oil pump
Variable valve timing (Valvetronic) with 3-phase servomotor and integrated eccentric shaft sensor
Composite camshaft construction
New piston design
Siemens DME MEVD17.2.2

The PCV design is updated in the N18. Rather than an external hose on the passenger side, the vacuum line is internal to the valve cover. This is (presumably) intended to reduce propensity for effluents pooling in the intake manifold. The boost line between the valve cover and turbo intake pipe is also different but seems to be functionally equivalent.

The N18 added a cosmetic cover over the front of the valve cover.

The N18 adds a small heat shield over the turbo oil pipe to help mitigate any coking in the line.

The turbo intake pipe in the N18 is rigid, as opposed to the flexible pipe in the N14.

The noisemaker is eliminated in the N18.

The N18 intake airbox base is slightly different (the JCW intake won't fit because the mounting screws don't line up).

The N18 oil dipstick is different (and many would say a step backwards in usability)

The Sport Button adds "pop and burble" to the exhaust


UNQUOTE

 

The N14 was used from 2007 - 2010

The N18 was used from 2011 - current.

I'm not sure of the month the change over took place.

I don't know about the N16 engine

 

What year did they start producing the N18?