The BMW M62 B35 (358S1) is a 3,498 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2001. It features DOHC, 32-valve configuration, and individual throttle bodies, delivering 180 kW (245 PS) and 350 Nm of torque. Its smooth power delivery and high-RPM capability make it a hallmark of BMW's luxury and performance engineering during the 1990s.
Fitted to models such as the E39 5 Series, E38 7 Series, and E53 X5, the M62 B35 was engineered for effortless cruising and strong acceleration in executive and luxury SUV applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 2 and later Euro 3 certification depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is premature failure of the Nikasil cylinder bore coating, particularly in early production units exposed to high-sulfur fuels. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 03 98, led to increased oil consumption and bore wear. In 1998, BMW transitioned to steel-lined cylinders (Alusil) across all M62 variants to eliminate the problem.
Production years 1995–1997 meet Euro 2 standards; 1998–2001 models comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The BMW M62 B35 (358S1) is a 3,498 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for luxury and performance models (1995–2001). It combines individual throttle bodies with dual overhead camshafts to deliver linear power delivery and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 2 and Euro 3 standards, it balances smooth performance with evolving emissions requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 78.9 mm | |
| Power output | 180 kW (245 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.2 sequential port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-1998); Euro 3 (1998–2001) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-98 (SAE 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 192 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain Nikasil/Alusil bore integrity and chain longevity. BMW Longlife-98 (10W-40) oil is critical due to its thermal stability and protection under sustained load. Early M62 B35 engines with Nikasil liners are vulnerable to bore wear when operated with high-sulfur fuel; only EN 228-compliant petrol should be used. Post-1998 Alusil-equipped units are significantly more durable. The ME7.2 engine management system is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks. Regular inspection of DISA valves and crankcase ventilation is advised to maintain performance.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-98 (10W-40) specification (BMW SIB 11 03 98). Supersedes ACEA A2/B2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1995–1997 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). Euro 3 applies to 1998–2001 models.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228.
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A25800, A25830, SIB 11 03 98
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW M62 B35 was used across BMW's E38, E39, and E53 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated VANOS on the E39 and revised intake manifolds on the E53-and from 1998 the facelifted E39 LCI adopted the M62TU variant with updated engine management and revised cylinder liners, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A25890). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M62 series). Pre-1998 models have silver valve covers with "M62" branding; post-1998 units feature "M62 TU" on the cover. Critical differentiation from M62TU: Original M62 B35 uses Motronic ME7.2 ECU with cable throttle, while M62TU features MS42 ECU with drive-by-wire. Service parts require production date verification - cylinder heads and liners before 06/1998 are incompatible with later units per BMW SIB 11 03 98.
The M62 B35's primary reliability risk is cylinder bore wear on early Nikasil-equipped builds, with elevated incidence in regions with poor fuel quality. Internal BMW reports from 1997 indicated a significant number of pre-1998 units requiring engine rebuilds before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show compression-related failures were common in neglected examples. Extended idling and aggressive driving increase thermal stress, making oil and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1995–2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998–2006). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M62B35-S1.
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