The BMW E41/4 is a 6,000 cc V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine developed for BMW's flagship luxury sedan, the 7 Series (E65/E66). It is part of the company's high-performance engine lineage, featuring DOHC, 48-valve architecture, and advanced electronic throttle control (E-gas). In standard tune, it produces 270 kW (367 PS), delivering smooth, effortless power delivery and refined cruising capability.
Fitted exclusively to the BMW 760i and 760Li models, the E41/4 was engineered to offer a quiet, vibration-free driving experience with exceptional low-end torque and linear power output. Emissions compliance is achieved through dual catalytic converters and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 3 standards across its production run.
This engine was BMW's first production V12 with Valvetronic (variable valve lift), eliminating the need for a throttle butterfly and improving efficiency and responsiveness. No major running changes were made during its production life, but it was superseded in 2005 by the twin-turbocharged N73 engine. The E41/4 remains a benchmark for naturally aspirated luxury performance.
All production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2045).
The BMW E41/4 is a 6,000 cc V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury applications (2000–2005). It combines Valvetronic variable valve lift with individual throttle bodies and a 60° cylinder bank angle to deliver unparalleled smoothness and responsive performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it represents the pinnacle of BMW's naturally aspirated engine technology before the turbo era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,000 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 270 kW (367 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (SULEV) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chains (quad-cam layout) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 230 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response and exceptional smoothness but requires high-revving operation to access peak power. BMW Longlife-01 (5W-40) oil is essential for maintaining chain tensioner and hydraulic lifter longevity. The Valvetronic system demands regular maintenance; neglect can lead to error codes and reduced performance. Dual-row roller chains are robust but require timely inspection for wear. The engine's size and complexity mean higher servicing costs and specialized diagnostic tools are often required. Fuel consumption is high under spirited driving, with real-world figures often exceeding 15 L/100km in urban conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 (5W-40) specification (BMW SIB 11 05 19). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models (2000–2005) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2045).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all markets (BMW TIS Doc. A22000).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Doc A22000
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2045)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW E41/4 was used exclusively in the E65/E66 7 Series platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine was not shared with any other BMW model or manufacturer. Its installation required specific engine mounts, cooling system routing, and transmission calibration. No significant service part revisions occurred during its production run, but it was succeeded by the N73 B60 in 2005.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-hand side (passenger side) of the engine block, near the front of the cylinder head (BMW TIS A22000). The 7th VIN digit for these models is 'E' for E-series engines. The E41/4 features a prominent Valvetronic badge on the intake manifold and a 60° V12 configuration with individual throttle bodies. It uses a Siemens MS 70 engine control unit. No visual differences exist between 760i and 760Li variants; differentiation is based on vehicle chassis code.
The E41/4's primary reliability risks are Valvetronic system faults and high-voltage component aging, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Internal BMW field reports from 2006 noted increased Valvetronic actuator failures in vehicles with extended service intervals, while UK DVSA records show a moderate rise in emissions-related MOT failures linked to lambda sensor degradation. Regular diagnostics and use of quality consumables are critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2000-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW E414.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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