The BMW M60 B30 is a 2,997 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1992 and 1995. It marked BMW's return to V8 production after a 25-year hiatus, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32-valve configuration, and individual throttle bodies. This engine delivered 160 kW (218 PS) and 290 Nm of torque, offering smooth power delivery and refined performance for luxury applications.
Fitted to flagship models including the E32 7 Series and E34 5 Series, the M60 B30 was engineered for premium driving refinement and effortless acceleration. Emissions compliance was achieved through a dual three-way catalytic converter system and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 2 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature camshaft bearing wear, which in some cases led to catastrophic engine failure. This issue, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 01 94, is attributed to insufficient lubrication at the cam bearing journals under sustained high loads. In 1994, BMW introduced revised bearing materials and oil feed modifications to improve durability in later production units.
Production years 1992–1995 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The BMW M60 B30 is a 2,997 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for luxury sedan platforms (1992–1995). It combines a 32-valve DOHC layout with individual throttle bodies to deliver smooth, linear power delivery and high-RPM responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances performance with refinement in BMW's flagship vehicles.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 67.6 mm | |
| Power output | 160 kW (218 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multipoint fuel injection (SME) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-98 (SAE 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The M60 B30 provides smooth, high-revving performance ideal for grand touring but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals to prevent cam bearing wear and timing chain degradation. BMW Longlife-98 (10W-40) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection for the DOHC valvetrain. Oil should be changed every 12,000 km or annually to maintain lubrication integrity. The individual throttle bodies demand periodic synchronization via diagnostic tools to preserve throttle response. Post-1994 models with revised cam bearings show significantly improved durability; pre-1994 units should verify bearing status and consider preventative upgrades per BMW SIB 11 01 94.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-98 (10W-40) specification (BMW SIB 11 01 94). Supersedes ACEA A2-97 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all M60 B30 models (1992–1995) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (RON 95).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A27410, A27411, A27412, SIB 11 01 94
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW M60 B30 was used across BMW's E32/E34 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the E32 and revised intake manifolds in the E34-and from 1994 the updated camshaft bearing design with improved oil feed, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-left side of the engine block near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A27410). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M60 series). Pre-1994 models have silver valve covers with "M60" branding; post-1994 units use black valve covers with "M60B30" designation. Critical differentiation from M60TÜ: Original M60 B30 lacks secondary air injection system; M60TÜ includes air pump for emissions. Service parts require casting verification - camshaft bearings before 09/1994 are incompatible with later revisions due to oil feed redesign (BMW SIB 11 01 94).
The M60 B30's primary reliability risk is camshaft bearing wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-load or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 1994 indicated a significant number of pre-1994 units required engine rebuilds before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show lubrication neglect as a top cause of V8 engine failure in E32/E34 petrol models. Extended service intervals and use of incorrect oil increase bearing stress, making oil quality and schedule adherence critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1992-1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M60B30.
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