The 6.0-liter 12-cylinder BMW N73B60 engine was assembled from 2002 to 2008 and was installed only on 7-Series sedans in the back of the E65, including the extended modification of the E66. The N73B60 was the first direct injection petrol engine in BMW history.
N73 family: N73B60, N73B68.
Specifications
| Production years | 2002-2008 |
| Displacement, cc | 5972 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 445 |
| Torque output, Nm | 600 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V12 |
| Block head | aluminum 48v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 89 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 80 |
| Compression ratio | 11.3 |
| Features | Valvetronic |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | double VANOS |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 8.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for BMW 760Li 2004) — city — highway — combined |
20.2 9.5 13.4 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~320 000 |
| Weight, kg | 230 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW 7-Series E65 in 2002 – 2008.
Disadvantages of the N73B60 engine
- The main problems are associated with rapid coking due to the direct injection system;
- The Double VANOS system is a modest resource here, sometimes less than 150,000 km;
- Still often there are vibrations at low speeds due to a malfunction of Valvetronic;
- After 150,000 km of run, they often stretch here and require replacement of the timing chain;
- The weaknesses of this motor also include a tendency to leaks and oil consumption.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW N73B60
How much power does the BMW N73B60 make?
The BMW N73B60 develops 445 hp and 600 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the BMW N73B60 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 8.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-40.
Does the BMW N73B60 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW N73B60 uses a timing chain.
Is the BMW N73B60 turbocharged?
No, the BMW N73B60 is naturally aspirated.
Does the BMW N73B60 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the BMW N73B60 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the BMW N73B60 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW N73B60 is ~320 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the BMW N73B60?
BMW 760Li 2004: city 20.2, highway 9.5, combined 13.4 L/100 km.
What cars was the BMW N73B60 installed on?
BMW 7-Series E65 in 2002 - 2008.
What are the common problems of the BMW N73B60?
The main problems are associated with rapid coking due to the direct injection system. The Double VANOS system is a modest resource here, sometimes less than 150,000 km. All known problems.
What engines are related to the BMW N73B60?
N73 family: N73B68.





