The BMW P68B20TU is a 1,998 cc, turbocharged inline-four petrol engine developed for motorsport applications, particularly the DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) series. It features DOHC, 16-valve architecture, direct fuel injection, and a single turbocharger, producing over 500 kW (680 PS) in race trim. This engine is a heavily modified version of the production B48 engine, adapted for high-revving performance and extreme durability under racing conditions.
Fitted exclusively to the BMW M4 DTM (2019–2023), the P68B20TU was engineered for maximum power output, throttle response, and reliability on track. Emissions compliance is not applicable as this is a competition-only engine built to FIA and DTM technical regulations, with extensive use of motorsport-specific materials and systems.
One documented technical update is the 2021 mid-cycle revision (TU = Technical Update), which improved cylinder head cooling and valve train stability at high RPM. This update, detailed in BMW Motorsport Internal Bulletin MS-21-004, was introduced to enhance longevity during endurance events. The engine features race-spec internals, including forged pistons, hollow-core valves, and dry sump lubrication.
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The P68B20TU is a competition-only engine and not subject to Euro emissions standards. Homologated for DTM use under FIA Appendix J regulations.
The BMW P68B20TU is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged racing engine developed for the DTM series (2019–2023). It builds upon the B48 architecture with extensive motorsport modifications to deliver over 680 PS in race configuration. Designed for high-RPM endurance performance, it features race-grade components and systems not found in production vehicles.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Racing petrol (102 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (single) with anti-lag system | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 500+ kW (680+ PS) @ 9,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 650+ Nm @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-precision direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Not applicable (competition engine) | |
| Compression ratio | 14.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Dual-circuit water-cooled with external radiator | |
| Turbocharger | Single Garrett Motorsport GTX3584R | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference) | |
| Oil type | Motul 300V Competition 10W-60 | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The P68B20TU delivers extreme power for motorsport use but requires complete rebuilds every 1,500–2,000 km as per DTM regulations. Motul 300V 10W-60 oil is essential for high-temperature stability and bearing protection. The anti-lag system increases exhaust and turbo temperatures significantly, requiring post-race cooldown procedures. Fuel system is calibrated for 102 RON racing petrol only; pump gasoline will cause detonation. The 2021 TU update improved cylinder head cooling and valve train stability, reducing failure rates in endurance races. All maintenance must be performed by certified BMW Motorsport technicians.
Oil Specs: Requires Motul 300V Competition 10W-60 (BMW MS LS-001). Standard passenger car oils are not suitable.
Emissions: Not applicable – competition engine homologated under FIA Appendix J (Article 254).
Power Ratings: Measured on BMW MS-4000 dynamometer. Output varies with boost and fuel quality (DTM Sporting Regs 2022).
BMW Motorsport Technical Information System (MS-TIS): Docs MS-A28010, MS-20-003, MS-21-004
DTM Sporting Regulations 2022 (www.dtmsport.com)
FIA Appendix J – Circuit Homologation Regulations
BMW Motorsport Performance Report PR-68B20-01
The BMW P68B20TU was used exclusively in BMW's G82 M4 DTM platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received competition-specific adaptations-reinforced block castings, dry sump system, and integrated data logging-and from 2021 the Technical Update (TU) introduced improved cooling and valve train components, creating parts incompatibility with pre-2021 units. All modifications are documented in BMW Motorsport internal bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the machined surface of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (BMW MS-TIS A28010). The engine family is identified by the 'P' prefix (P68 = Motorsport 2.0L). Pre-2021 units have silver valve covers with red BMW Motorsport lettering; post-2021 TU models use black valve covers with revised cooling ports. Critical differentiation from B48: P68B20TU has dry sump lubrication, race ECU, and no emissions equipment. Service parts require homologation verification—pre-2021 and post-TU components are not interchangeable (BMW MS Bulletin MS-21-004).
The P68B20TU's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing failure under sustained high load, with elevated incidence in hot-weather races. Internal BMW Motorsport data from 2020 indicated a notable share of pre-TU engines required turbo replacement before 1,500 km, while DTM technical reports link a significant portion of retirements to boost system faults. High exhaust temperatures and aggressive anti-lag use increase thermal stress, making cooldown procedures and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from BMW Motorsport technical bulletins (2019-2023) and DTM technical reports (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW P68B20TU.
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