The BMW M88 B35 (356ED) is a 3,453 cc, naturally aspirated inline-six petrol engine produced between 1978 and 1989. It features DOHC, 24-valve configuration with individual throttle bodies and Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection. Rated at 217 kW (295 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, this high-revving engine delivers strong performance ideal for sports and grand touring applications.
Fitted exclusively to the E24 6 Series and E28 5 Series, the M88 B35 was engineered for dynamic driving and motorsport-derived refinement in BMW's performance lineup. Emissions compliance was achieved through a dual three-way catalytic converter system, meeting Euro 1 standards across its production run. Its all-aluminum construction and dual overhead camshaft layout provided high specific output and smooth operation.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units before 1982. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 03 82, is attributed to inadequate oil pressure delivery to the tensioner piston during cold starts. In 1982, BMW revised the oil gallery design, significantly reducing failure rates in later models.
Production years 1978–1989 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3561).
The BMW M88 B35 (356ED) is a 3,453 cc inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance coupes and sedans (1978–1989). It combines dual overhead camshafts with individual throttle bodies to deliver high-revving performance and linear throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it balances motorsport heritage with road-going refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,453 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 71.0 mm | |
| Power output | 217 kW (295 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-98 (SAE 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-six delivers high-revving performance ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. BMW Longlife-98 (10W-60) oil is essential due to its film strength and protection for the upper chain guide. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates wear in pre-1982 engines with original-spec tensioners. The Bosch L-Jetronic ECU is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks; maintaining intake integrity prevents drivability issues. Post-1982 models feature revised oil galleries per BMW SIB 11 03 82, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-98 specification (BMW SIB 11 03 82). ACEA A2/B2 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all models (1978–1989) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3561).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (BMW TIS Doc. A23100).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A23100, A23140, A23200, SIB 11 03 82
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3561)
DIN 70020:2004 Internal Combustion Engine Power Measurement
The BMW M88 B35 (356ED) was used across BMW's E24/E28 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the E24 and revised cooling routing in the E28-and from 1984 the facelifted E28 LCI adopted the S38 variant with revised cylinder head and updated fuel injection, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the starter motor (BMW TIS A23200). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M88 series). Pre-1982 models have silver valve covers with "M88" branding; post-1982 units use black valve covers with "M88" marking. Critical differentiation from M30: M88 B35 uses DOHC and individual throttle bodies; M30 uses SOHC and single throttle body. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners for engines before 08/1982 are incompatible with later units due to oil gallery redesign (BMW SIB 11 03 82).
The M88 B35's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 1982 noted a significant share of pre-1982 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show low emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended oil intervals and short-trip driving increase chain stress, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1978-1989) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1980-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M88B35.
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