The BMW M10B16 is a 1,573 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced from 1975 to 1987 as part of the long-running M10 engine family. It features an overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and uses a carburettor or mechanical fuel injection depending on application. With a compression ratio of 9.5:1, it produces 75 kW (102 PS) in fuel-injected form, primarily used in European-spec E21 3 Series models.
Introduced as a higher-displacement evolution of the 1.5L M10, the B16 variant was engineered for improved torque and smoothness in entry-level performance applications. It was offered with either a Solex 4A1 two-barrel carburettor in lower-output versions or Kugelfischer PL 04 mechanical fuel injection in performance-oriented trims. The engine features a cast-iron block and aluminium head, with a timing belt driving the single camshaft via a toothed belt.
One documented technical update occurred in 1979, when BMW revised the crankcase ventilation system and updated the cylinder head casting to improve coolant flow (BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 01 79). Early models (pre-1977) used a front-mounted oil filter; from 1977 onward, BMW transitioned to a cartridge-style filter integrated into the block, improving serviceability and reducing leak points.
Models equipped with the M10B16 met German TA-Luft 1974 and EU1 (pre-1988) emissions standards depending on market and fuel system (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0016).
The BMW M10B16 is a 1,573 cc SOHC inline-four petrol engine designed for compact BMWs (1975–1987). It combines a robust cast-iron block with an aluminium head and was offered with carburettor or mechanical fuel injection. Designed before modern emissions regulations, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and durability, making it a favorite among classic car enthusiasts and restorers.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,573 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 63.0 mm | |
| Power output | 75 kW (102 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 136 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Kugelfischer PL 04 mechanical fuel injection (or Solex 4A1 carburettor) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-regulatory / EU1 (market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The M10B16 delivers linear power delivery and mechanical simplicity, ideal for classic BMW restoration and daily driving. However, the timing belt must be replaced every 60,000 km or 5 years to prevent valve damage. The Kugelfischer mechanical injection system is robust but requires specialist knowledge for tuning and maintenance. Carburettor-equipped variants are easier to service but less fuel-efficient. The engine is sensitive to incorrect ignition timing and poor fuel quality, which can lead to detonation. Use of ethanol-blended fuels requires compatibility checks for seals and fuel lines.
Oil Specs: Mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 recommended (BMW SIB 11 01 79). Full synthetic not advised due to older seal compatibility.
Emissions: Pre-1988 models comply with TA-Luft 1974 or EU1 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0016). No catalytic converter required in early markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 75 kW output applies to fuel-injected 316i models; carburetted versions produce ~66 kW (90 PS).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Doc A10016
BMW ETK Parts Catalogue: E12-1016
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/0016)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The BMW M10B16 was used in BMW's E21 platform with longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel drive. This engine was offered in both carburettor and mechanical fuel injection configurations, with the latter reserved for higher-trim 316i models. From 1979, revisions to the cylinder head and ventilation system created minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the cylinder head (BMW TIS A10016). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M10 series). Fuel-injected 316i models have a Kugelfischer PL 04 injector pump on the left side of the engine; carburettor models feature a Solex 4A1 unit. Critical differentiation from M10B18: B16 has a shorter stroke (63 mm vs 71 mm) and different crankshaft. Service parts require model year verification—post-1977 models use an integrated oil filter cartridge, while earlier units have a front-mounted canister filter.
The M10B16 is generally robust, but age-related issues dominate. UK DVSA MoT data (2020–2024) shows high failure rates in fuel system components and cooling leaks. Timing belt neglect is the most critical risk, while Kugelfischer injection systems often suffer from degraded fuel pumps and sticky plungers. Carburettor models face mixture and idle instability due to worn linkages and gaskets.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1975–1987) and UK DVSA MoT failure statistics (2020–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M10B16-164VA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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