The BMW S54R is a 3,246 cc, inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2008. It featured dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24-valve configuration, and BMW's individual throttle bodies (ITB) system with Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 engine management. In standard tune, it delivered 252 kW (343 PS) at 7,900 rpm and 365 Nm of torque at 4,900 rpm, offering high-revving performance and motorsport-derived responsiveness.
Fitted exclusively to the E46 M3 CSL, the S54R was engineered for track-focused driving and homologation purposes. Emissions compliance was achieved through a catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented design focus is high-RPM durability, which was addressed through forged internals and a rigid cylinder block. This engineering approach, detailed in BMW Motorsport Technical Bulletin M-TECH-03, prioritized performance over fuel economy and emissions, making it a pure driver's engine.
Production years 2003–2008 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1003).
The BMW S54R is a 3,246 cc inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2003–2008). It combines DOHC valvetrain with individual throttle bodies to deliver high-RPM power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances motorsport pedigree with road legality.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,246 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 91.0 mm | |
| Power output | 252 kW (343 PS) @ 7,900 rpm | |
| Torque | 365 Nm @ 4,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 with individual throttle bodies | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 170 kg |
The high-revving inline-six delivers track-capable performance ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent valvetrain wear. BMW Longlife-01 (10W-60) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection for the DOHC system. High-RPM operation demands use of premium fuel (RON 98) to prevent pre-ignition. Regular inspection of valve clearances and ITB synchronization is advised for sustained performance.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 (10W-60) specification (BMW SIB 11 01 03). Formulated for high-RPM M engines.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all S54R models (2003–2008) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1003).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output maintained up to 8,000 rpm redline (BMW TIS Doc. A23020).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A23020, A23021, A23022, SIB 11 01 03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1003)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW S54R was used exclusively in BMW's E46 platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received model-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity, lightweight internals, and motorsport-derived oil management-for the E46 M3 CSL, creating strict interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front-right side of the engine block near the cylinder head (BMW TIS A23020). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('S' for S54 series). The S54R is visually distinct with silver valve cover, individual throttle bodies, and side-mounted intake plenum. Critical differentiation from M54: S54R uses a 24-valve DOHC with ITB, while M54 is 24-valve DOHC with single throttle body. Service parts are not interchangeable with other BMW engines.
The S54R's primary engineering focus is high-RPM durability, with no widespread field failures reported as of 2025. Internal BMW Motorsport quality reports indicate excellent component integrity in customer and track vehicles, while UK DVSA early registration data shows no elevated failure trends. However, improper maintenance or track use without proper warm-up/cool-down cycles may risk valvetrain or oil system stress.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2003–2008) and UK DVSA early-life registration data (2004–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW S54R.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with BMW or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
BMW Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialBMW documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
