The BMW M10 B18 (184VA) is a 1,766 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine introduced in 1975 as part of BMW's long-running M10 engine family. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and twin Solex 40 PDSI carburetors. In standard tune it delivers 77 kW (105 PS), with torque output of 148 Nm, offering smooth and linear performance typical of BMW's engineering philosophy of the era.
Fitted across BMW's E21 platform, the M10 B18 (184VA) was engineered for longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel drive layouts. Emissions compliance was achieved through basic air injection and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) in later models, meeting early European standards. The engine is renowned for its durability and mechanical simplicity, supporting decades of enthusiast ownership and restoration.
One documented concern is carburetor synchronization drift in older units due to aging linkages and fuel quality changes. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 01 85, is linked to wear in throttle shafts and vacuum diaphragm degradation. From 1980, BMW revised carburetor mounting hardware and introduced improved linkage bushings to enhance long-term reliability.
Models from 1979–1983 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7888).
The BMW M10 B18 (184VA) is a 1,766 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1975–1983). It combines twin-carburetor aspiration with a high-revving design to deliver smooth power delivery and driver engagement. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards, it balances performance with mechanical reliability and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,766 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated, twin carburetor | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 71.0 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin Solex 40 PDSI carburetors | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1979–1983) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with mechanical thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The M10 B18 (184VA)'s carbureted design requires regular adjustment but offers excellent serviceability. Twin Solex carburetors are sensitive to vacuum leaks and linkage wear, which can cause idle instability and poor fuel economy. Oil changes every 7,500 km are recommended to maintain chain and bearing longevity. Synchronization of the twin carburetors is critical for smooth operation and should be checked annually. The engine tolerates lower-octane fuel but performs best on 95 RON. From 1979, catalytic converters were fitted to meet Euro 1 standards, requiring unleaded fuel. Timing chain wear is uncommon but possible in neglected engines; inspection is advised during major service.
Oil Specs: No BMW Longlife specification; use high-quality mineral 10W-40 meeting API SL standards (BMW SIB 13 01 85).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1979–1983 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7888). Pre-1979 models are non-catalyst.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across production years (BMW TIS Doc. A18155).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18150, A18151, A18152, SIB 13 01 85
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7888)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Power Measurement Standard
The BMW M10 B18 (184VA) was used across BMW's E21 platform with longitudinal mounting and RWD layout. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the E21 LCI and dual-carburetor setup in all variants—and from 1979 the facelifted E21 models adopted catalytic converters to meet Euro 1, creating interchange limits. No licensed or shared-production partnerships existed for this engine. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (BMW TIS A18160). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M-series). All M10 B18 (184VA) units use twin Solex 40 PDSI carburetors. E21 models (1975–1983) have a distinctive air cleaner assembly over the carburetors. Critical differentiation: This variant lacks fuel injection and is specific to carbureted E21 318 models. Service parts are generally interchangeable, but catalytic converter-equipped models (post-1979) require compatible exhaust manifolds.
The M10 B18 (184VA)'s primary concerns are age-related: carburetor drift, vacuum leaks, and cooling system failures. UK DVLA and MOT records indicate that poorly maintained examples often fail on emissions or idle quality, while well-serviced engines regularly exceed 200,000 km. Cold-start performance and idle stability are most affected by neglected carburetor and ignition systems.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1980s), UK DVSA MOT failure statistics (2018-2024), and restoration guides. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M10B18-184VA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with BMW or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
BMW Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialBMW documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
