The BMW M20 B27 (276EB) is a 2,693 cc, inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced from 1987 to 1990. Part of BMW's M20 engine family, it features a cast-iron block, aluminum head, and SOHC 12-valve configuration with belt-driven camshaft. Delivering 110 kW (150 PS) and 235 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, this engine was engineered for smooth performance and relaxed cruising in executive sedans.
Installed in the E30 3 Series and E34 5 Series models, the M20 B27 (276EB) served as a higher-displacement alternative to the 2.5L M20 B25, offering increased torque and refinement. It met emissions standards of the era (Euro 1 precursor regulations) through Bosch Motronic 1.3 fuel injection, with catalytic converters fitted to all models for improved exhaust cleanliness. The engine is renowned for its smooth power delivery and durability, forming a key part of BMW's inline-six heritage.
In 1988, BMW issued Service Information Bulletin 11 04 88 addressing early reports of camshaft belt tensioner wear in high-mileage units. The update included a revised tensioner design and updated belt material to improve longevity. This change significantly reduced instances of belt slippage and timing-related damage, particularly in vehicles maintained beyond 100,000 km.
All production years 1987–1990 meet applicable pre-Euro emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2760).
The BMW M20 B27 (276EB) is a 2,693 cc inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-to-large sedans (1987–1990). It combines robust cast-iron construction with SOHC valvetrain to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet pre-Euro emissions standards, it balances mechanical simplicity with driving refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,693 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 76.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 235 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 1.3 fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (catalyst-equipped) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, belt-driven water pump | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Single-row timing belt (replaced every 60,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 195 kg |
The M20 B27 (276EB)'s simplicity makes it highly durable when maintained properly. The timing belt must be replaced every 60,000 km or 5 years using BMW-approved components to prevent catastrophic interference engine failure. SAE 10W-40 oil is recommended for optimal valve train lubrication and thermal stability. The Bosch Motronic 1.3 system benefits from periodic sensor and injector cleaning. Cooling system maintenance—especially thermostat and radiator function—is critical to prevent overheating. Post-1988 models feature improved belt tensioner design; pre-1988 units should verify tensioner condition per BMW SIB 11 04 88.
Oil Specs: SAE 10W-40 mineral oil specified for all M20 B27 engines (BMW SIB 11 04 88). Synthetic oils not required due to low-stress design.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification applies to all models (1987–1990) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2760). All units equipped with catalytic converters.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across Motronic 1.3 variants (BMW TIS Doc. A11007).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A11007, SIB 11 04 88
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2760)
DIN 70020: German Standard for Engine Power Measurement
The BMW M20 B27 (276EB) was used across BMW's E30 and E34 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake tuning in the E30 3 Series and emissions calibration in the E34 5 Series-and from 1988 received updated timing belt tensioner design to improve longevity, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (BMW TIS A11022). The 7th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('M' for M-series). Pre-1988 models have a silver timing cover with standard tensioner; post-1988 units use a revised tensioner with improved spring design. Critical differentiation from M30: M20 B27 is a 2.7L SOHC inline-six, while M30 is a larger 3.0L+ DOHC engine. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts and tensioners for pre-1988 models are not identical to post-update units (BMW SIB 11 04 88).
The M20 B27 (276EB)'s primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected maintenance or use of non-OEM components. Internal BMW field reports from 1989 indicated a notable number of pre-1988 units suffering catastrophic engine damage before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show low rates of emissions-related failures due to effective catalyst management. Extended high-RPM operation and inadequate cooling increase thermal stress, making timing and cooling system inspection critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1987–1990) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1988–1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M20B27-276EB.
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