A6 3.0 TDi cross-generation engine swap?

[MF35]

I've an old (2005) C6 series Audi A6 (2004 – 2011 range), with a 3.0 TDi 6-cylinder diesel.

Now has nearly 300,000 miles. Bodywork is immaculate; engine is going great and I have no issues with it. However, it presumably can’t run forever … if I ever did need to change it, would it need to be a like-for-like engine – or could I fit a later 3.0 litre diesel from either of the subsequent Audi A6 ranges (i.e., the C7 series (2011–2018) or the C8 series (2018–present)?

Both use substantially the same basic 3 litre TDi engine. I imagine the C8 series is surrounded with entirely different electrics (hybrids etc) and presumably would be a non-starter, but I wondered about the 3 litre diesel from the 2011-2018 series?

Or am I better off just rebuilding the original engine as needed, on the basis that it dates from 2005 and therefore is a simpler set-up which doesn't come bundled with as much emissions kit?

Thanks

[Dr G]

Does it use much oil? You'll kill the gearbox, turbo, suspension, electrics etc. before that engine is worn out. No reason it couldn't do a load more. Even a chain failure if caught in time is unlikely to wreck the base engine.

[MF35]

Dr G said:

Does it use much oil? You'll kill the gearbox, turbo, suspension, electrics etc. before that engine is worn out. No reason it couldn't do a load more. Even a chain failure if caught in time is unlikely to wreck the base engine.

No - none at all - pulls like a train actually. You're right - I'll leave well enough alone!