The BMW S54B32 engine is a more productive and high-revving version of the engine, in contrast to the S52, which was installed on the BMW M3 in the back of the E46, including the Z3M and Z4M roadsters / coupes.
The BMW S54B32 engine became the best engine in the International Powertrain Competition in 2001 in the category “from 3.0 to 4.0 liters”, and every year until 2006 it was recognized as the best in this category. In 2001, he also entered the Ward’s 10 Best Engines list and remained there until the end of 2004.
Specifications
| Production years | 2000-2011 |
| Displacement, cc | 3246 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 315 /7400 rpm 325 /7400 rpm 333 /7900 rpm 343 /7900 rpm 360 /7900 rpm |
| Torque output, Nm | 340 /4900 rpm 350 /4900 rpm 355 /4900 rpm 365 /4900 rpm 370 /4900 rpm |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 91 |
| Compression ratio | 11.5 |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 10W-60 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 6.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | Euro 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for E46 M3) — city — highway — combined |
17.8 8.4 11.9 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~400 000 |
| Weight, kg | 149 |
| Max engine speed, rpm | 8000 |
| Oil consumption, gr/1000 km | up to 1000 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW M3-Series E46 in 2000 – 2006;
- BMW Z3 M-Series E36/7 in 2000 – 2002 (M Roadster and M Coupe);
- Wiesmann MF 3 in 2002 – 2011;
- BMW Z4 M-Series E85 in 2006 – 2008 (M Roadster and M Coupe).
Disadvantages of the S54B32 engine
The unit of this series has an impressive resource, but at the same time it is necessary to take into account the mode in which the M3 E46 models were often operated. Proceeding from this and from the motor itself, any “surprises” can be expected. For example, after passing M3 an average of 150 thousand km, it is necessary to completely change the timing chain, liners and tensioners. It should be noted that such shortcomings are more typical for copies released before 2003. More modern versions do not suffer from such diseases.
Another important fact. If the S54B32 was purchased in good working order, you should not violate the conditions of its operation, especially pouring someone else’s oil and delaying its replacement and, in general, inspection and maintenance.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW S54B32
How much power does the BMW S54B32 make?
Power output of the BMW S54B32, hp: 315 /7400 rpm; 325 /7400 rpm; 333 /7900 rpm; 343 /7900 rpm; 360 /7900 rpm. Torque, Nm: 340 /4900 rpm; 350 /4900 rpm; 355 /4900 rpm; 365 /4900 rpm; 370 /4900 rpm.
How much oil does the BMW S54B32 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 6.5 liters. Recommended oil: 10W-60.
Does the BMW S54B32 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW S54B32 uses a timing chain.
Is the BMW S54B32 turbocharged?
No, the BMW S54B32 is naturally aspirated.
Does the BMW S54B32 need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the BMW S54B32 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW S54B32 is ~400 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the BMW S54B32?
E46 M3: city 17.8, highway 8.4, combined 11.9 L/100 km.
What cars was the BMW S54B32 installed on?
BMW M3-Series E46 in 2000 - 2006; BMW Z3 M-Series E36/7 in 2000 - 2002 (M Roadster and M Coupe); Wiesmann MF 3 in 2002 - 2011; BMW Z4 M-Series E85 in 2006 - 2008 (M Roadster and M Coupe).
