My 91 318i kind of sounds like a diesel when running

[mr ilia]

It is likely a chain tensioner issue. My does the same only during a cold start and only for a second or so.

[90pioneer]

I just bought a 91 318i. It sort of sounds like a diesel when it runs/drives. It has 178k on it.

Would this be from exhaust? It doesn't seem rusted out, or would it more than likely be from the timing chain tensioner piston?