The M50B20 engine, the smallest inline 6-cylinder engine of the BMW M50 series (the family also included M50B24, M50B25, S50B30, S50B32) was released in 1990 as a replacement for the obsolete M20B20.
Here is a new cast-iron cylinder block with oil nozzles, the inter-cylinder distance remains the same – 91 mm, but the height has changed to 210 mm. Inside this block is a new crankshaft with a piston stroke of 66 mm, lightweight forged connecting rods of 135 mm, new pistons with a compression height of 42.8 mm. Thus it turns out 2 liters on 6 cylinders.
In 1992, the M50 engines received an upgrade, the purpose of which was to reduce fuel consumption, improve environmental friendliness by reducing friction. Such motors are called M50B20TU. They began to be equipped with a phase shifter on the intake shaft (Vanos), and also received new lightweight connecting rods (length 145 mm), significantly lighter pistons (-100 grams), and the compression height of the piston decreased to 31.64 mm. Lightweight valves were put here, with single, less rigid valve springs. Valve stem size is now 6mm. The engine management system was changed to Siemens MS 40.1.
All these motors were used on BMW cars with the 20i index.
M50 family: M50B20, M50B25, M50B25TU.
Specifications
| Production years | 1990-1996 Munich Plant |
| Displacement, cc | 1991 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 150 |
| Torque output, Nm | 190 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 80 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 66 |
| Compression ratio | 10.5 11.0 (TU) |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no single VANOS (TU) |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.75 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 1 EURO 2 (TU) |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for E36 320i) — city — highway — combined |
11.2 6.7 8.6 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~400 000 |
| Weight, kg | 198 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW 5-Series E34 in 1990 – 1996;
- BMW 3-Series E36 in 1991 – 1995.
Disadvantages of the M50B20 engine
- Most motor problems are associated with various kinds of gasket and seal leaks;
- The reason for the floating RPM is the contamination of the throttle or idle valve;
- Misfiring occurs due to the failure of candles, ignition coils, clogged injectors;
- Vanos variable valve timing system has low reliability;
- Also, this unit is afraid of overheating, monitor the condition of the cooling system.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW M50B20
How much power does the BMW M50B20 make?
The BMW M50B20 develops 150 hp and 190 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the BMW M50B20 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.75 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the BMW M50B20 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW M50B20 uses a timing chain.
Is the BMW M50B20 turbocharged?
No, the BMW M50B20 is naturally aspirated.
Does the BMW M50B20 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the BMW M50B20 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the BMW M50B20 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW M50B20 is ~400 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the BMW M50B20?
E36 320i: city 11.2, highway 6.7, combined 8.6 L/100 km.
What cars was the BMW M50B20 installed on?
BMW 5-Series E34 in 1990 - 1996; BMW 3-Series E36 in 1991 - 1995.
What are the common problems of the BMW M50B20?
Most motor problems are associated with various kinds of gasket and seal leaks. The reason for the floating RPM is the contamination of the throttle or idle valve. All known problems.
What engines are related to the BMW M50B20?
M50 family: M50B25.
