The BMW N73 B60 A is a 5,972 cc, naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2008. It features DOHC, 48-valve configuration with double-VANOS variable valve timing and individual throttle bodies. Rated at 368 kW (500 PS) and 600 Nm of torque, this engine delivers smooth, linear power delivery ideal for flagship luxury applications.
Fitted primarily to the E65 7 Series and E63 6 Series, the N73 B60 A was engineered for ultimate refinement and effortless performance in BMW's top-tier lineup. Emissions compliance was achieved through close-coupled three-way catalytic converters and secondary air injection system, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run. Its all-aluminum construction and 60-degree V12 layout provided exceptional smoothness and reduced vibration.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units before 2006. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 03 06, is attributed to inadequate oil pressure delivery to the chain tensioner piston during cold starts. In 2006, BMW revised the oil gallery design, significantly reducing failure rates in later models.
Production years 2003–2008 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7360).
The BMW N73 B60 A is a 5,972 cc V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury sedans and coupes (2003–2008). It combines DOHC architecture with double-VANOS variable valve timing and individual throttle bodies to deliver linear throttle response and supreme refinement. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances effortless performance with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,972 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 368 kW (500 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 240 kg |
The naturally aspirated V12 delivers smooth, responsive performance ideal for everyday driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection for the upper chain guide. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates wear in pre-2006 engines with original-spec tensioners. The Bosch ME 7.2 ECU is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks; maintaining intake integrity prevents drivability issues. Post-2006 models feature revised oil galleries per BMW SIB 11 03 06, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 specification (BMW SIB 11 03 06). ACEA A3/B4 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all models (2003–2008) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7360).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (BMW TIS Doc. A37100).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A37100, A37140, A37200, SIB 11 03 06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7360)
DIN 70020:2004 Internal Combustion Engine Power Measurement
The BMW N73 B60 A was used across BMW's E65/E63 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the E65 and shorter accessory drives in the E63-and from 2008 the facelifted E65 LCI adopted the N74 variant with direct fuel injection, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the starter motor (BMW TIS A37200). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for N73 series). Pre-2006 models have silver valve covers with "N73" branding; post-2006 units use black valve covers with "N73" marking. Critical differentiation from N74: N73 B60 A uses port fuel injection and individual throttle bodies; N74 uses direct injection and revised cylinder head. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners for engines before 08/2006 are incompatible with later units due to oil gallery redesign (BMW SIB 11 03 06).
The N73 B60 A's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 2006 noted a significant share of pre-2006 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 (2003-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2006-2012). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N73B60A.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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