The 5.6-liter V12 BMW S70 (S70B56) was built in Germany from 1992 to 1996 only for the most advanced version of the E31 8-Series coupe, the 850CSi. It produces 380 hp and 550 Nm; the 6.0-liter S70/2 derived from it was used in the McLaren F1.
Specifications
| Production years | 1992-1996 |
| Displacement, cc | 5576 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 380 |
| Torque output, Nm | 550 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V12 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 86.0 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 80.0 |
| Compression ratio | 9.8 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 10W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 7.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 1 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for BMW 850 CSi 1995) — city — highway — combined |
19.8 10.2 12.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 340 |
The engine was installed on:
- BMW 8-Series E31 in 1992 – 1996.
Disadvantages of the BMW S70 engine
- A very rare engine, and all parts are expensive, especially the unique air mass meters;
- The aluminum block without liners is sensitive to fuel quality;
- The EML electronic throttle control units are glitchy, and the oil line bolt problem known from the M70 is present here too;
- Intake manifold and oil sump gaskets, ignition coils and the crankshaft position sensor have a short life.
Frequently asked questions about the BMW S70
How much power does the BMW S70 make?
The BMW S70 develops 380 hp and 550 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the BMW S70 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 7.5 liters. Recommended oil: 10W-40.
Does the BMW S70 have a timing belt or chain?
The BMW S70 uses a timing chain.
Is the BMW S70 turbocharged?
No, the BMW S70 is naturally aspirated.
Does the BMW S70 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the BMW S70 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the BMW S70 last?
The typical lifespan of the BMW S70 is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the BMW S70?
BMW 850 CSi 1995: city 19.8, highway 10.2, combined 12.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the BMW S70 installed on?
BMW 8-Series E31 in 1992 - 1996.
What are the common problems of the BMW S70?
A very rare engine, and all parts are expensive, especially the unique air mass meters. The aluminum block without liners is sensitive to fuel quality. All known problems.
