The basic 3-liter version of the M3 sedan, coupe and convertible sports engine produced for the European market (S50B30 EU) since 1992. In 1994, this 300 hp engine was installed in a limited edition M3 GTR E36 coupe, and a year later the M3 GT E36 racing model was equipped with a 295 hp version of this unit, with a torque of 324 Nm. Also in 1995, BMW Motorsport and Schnitzer Motorsport GmbH upgraded this power unit for the Australian racing version of the M3-R E36 coupe.
S50 family: S50B30, S50B32.
Specifications
| Production years | 1992-1995 |
| Displacement, cc | 2990 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 243 /6000 rpm 286 /7000 rpm 295 /7100 rpm |
| Torque output, Nm | 305 /4250 rpm 320 /3600 rpm 323 /3900 rpm |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 86 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 85.8 |
| Compression ratio | 10.8 (EU) 10.5 (US) |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 / 5W-40 / 5W-50 / 10W-40 / 15W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 7.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | Euro 1 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km — city — highway — combined |
11.8 8.4 9.1 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~400 000 |
| Weight, kg | 151 (EU) 135 (US) |
| Max engine speed, rpm | 7280 (EU) 6500 (US) |
| Oil consumption, gr/1000 km | up to 1000 |
| Transmission — 5MT — 5AT |
ZF Type C ZF 5HP18 |
| Gear ratios, 5MT | 1 — 4.20 / 2 — 2.49 / 3 — 1.66 / 4 — 1.24 / 5 — 1.00 |
| Gear ratios, 5AT | 1 — 3.67 / 2 — 2.00 / 3 — 1.41 / 4 — 1.00 / 5 — 0.74 |
| Final drive ratio — 5MT — 5AT — 5MT (M3 GT, M3 CSL LTW) |
3.15 3.23 3.23 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW M3-Series E36 in 1992 – 1995.
Disadvantages of the S50B30 engine
Typical malfunctions of the S50B30 engine include: increased oil consumption, overheating, leaks, floating speed, problems with the Vanos system, intake air leaks.
Unstable turnovers are often caused by a failed idle valve. After cleaning the valve, operation is restored. When the problem persists, you should check the throttle position sensor, temperature sensor, lambda probe, sometimes it is enough to clean the throttle valve.
If the engine triples, check the ignition coils and injectors and spark plugs. In case of problems with the Vanos system, the engine begins to rumble, power decreases, the speed becomes unstable. In this situation, you need to buy a Vanos repair kit.
Motors with high wear are characterized by high oil consumption – up to 1 liter per 1000 km. Even after a major overhaul of the engine, consumption is practically not reduced. It is necessary to check whether the gaskets of the sump and the valve cover are not leaking, also exclude leaks through the oil dipstick. Check the integrity of the expansion tank causing antifreeze leakage. Problems can be caused by crankshaft, camshaft, temperature sensors.
The main reason for the failure of reliable S50B30 engines is the age of the power units.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW S50B30
How much power does the BMW S50B30 make?
Power output of the BMW S50B30, hp: 243 /6000 rpm; 286 /7000 rpm; 295 /7100 rpm. Torque, Nm: 305 /4250 rpm; 320 /3600 rpm; 323 /3900 rpm.
How much oil does the BMW S50B30 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 7.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30 / 5W-40 / 5W-50 / 10W-40 / 15W-40.
Does the BMW S50B30 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW S50B30 uses a timing chain.
Is the BMW S50B30 turbocharged?
No, the BMW S50B30 is naturally aspirated.
Does the BMW S50B30 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the BMW S50B30 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the BMW S50B30 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW S50B30 is ~400 000 km with proper maintenance.
What cars was the BMW S50B30 installed on?
BMW M3-Series E36 in 1992 - 1995.
What engines are related to the BMW S50B30?
S50 family: S50B32.
