The BMW M30 B30 is a 2,986 cc, inline-six, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1977 and 1989. It belongs to BMW's long-running M30 engine family, renowned for durability and smooth operation, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection. Delivering 135 kW (184 PS) and 270 Nm of torque, it offered refined performance ideal for executive and grand tourer applications of the era.
Fitted to key models including the E23 7 Series, E24 6 Series, and E28 5 Series, the M30 B30 was engineered for relaxed cruising and effortless power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through catalytic converters and closed-loop lambda control, meeting early European emissions standards (Euro 0), with Motronic-equipped variants introduced in later years for improved fuel metering and cleaner combustion.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking, particularly around the exhaust ports, which can develop due to repeated thermal cycling. This issue, referenced in BMW Technical Service Bulletin 11 51 85, is more prevalent in high-mileage or poorly maintained engines. Later revisions of the M30 series introduced improved head casting techniques and revised cooling system routing to mitigate thermal stress.
All M30 B30 production meets Euro 0 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683).
The BMW M30 B30 is a 2,986 cc inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for luxury sedans and coupes (1977–1989). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and mechanical refinement. Designed to meet early European emissions standards (Euro 0), it balances responsive performance with long-term durability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,986 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 135 kW (184 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic DME | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 0 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SF/CC | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The inline-six configuration provides smooth power delivery and inherent balance, ideal for relaxed cruising and spirited driving. Regular valve clearance checks every 30,000 km are essential to maintain performance and prevent valve train noise. Use of high-quality mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 oil meeting API SF/CC standards is recommended to ensure longevity of the timing chain and camshaft. Cylinder head integrity should be monitored, especially in high-mileage units, as thermal stress can lead to exhaust port cracks. Post-1985 Motronic-equipped models benefit from more precise fuel metering and improved cold-start behaviour. Cooling system maintenance is critical—verify thermostat function and hose integrity to prevent overheating and head warping.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SF/CC specification (BMW Service Manual 62-11-006). Supersedes earlier BMW oil standards.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 0 across entire production run (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683). No Euro 1 variants produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel-injected variants with proper maintenance.
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24575, A24728, SIB 11 51 85
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5683)
DIN 70020:2004 - Road vehicles — Engine power — Measurement
The BMW M30 B30 was used across BMW's E23/E24/E28 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared core architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the E28 and different accessory drives in the E23-and from 1985 the facelifted E28 models adopted Motronic fuel injection, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing surface of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A24575). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M30 series). Pre-1985 models use L-Jetronic injection with square air flow meter; post-1985 units feature Motronic DME with integrated control unit. Critical differentiation from M30B25: M30B30 has larger bore (89.0 mm vs 84.0 mm) and greater displacement. Service parts require model-year verification—timing covers and intake manifolds differ between E23, E24, and E28 applications (BMW TIS A24617, A24618).
The M30 B30's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. Internal BMW field reports from 1988 noted recurring head failures in pre-1985 engines with neglected cooling systems, while UK DVSA MOT data shows a notable increase in exhaust-related failures in E28 530i models over 150,000 km. Extended high-load operation and coolant neglect amplify thermal stress, making cooling system integrity and regular servicing critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1977-1989) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1980-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M30B30.
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