The BMW S65 B40 A is a 3,999 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2013. It featured dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32-valve configuration, and BMW's individual throttle bodies (ITB) system with Bosch Motronic ME 9.2 engine management. In standard tune, it delivered 309 kW (420 PS) at 8,300 rpm and 400 Nm of torque at 3,900 rpm, offering high-revving performance and motorsport-derived responsiveness.
Fitted exclusively to the E92 M3, the S65 B40 A was engineered for track-focused driving and homologation purposes. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way 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-04, prioritized performance over fuel economy and emissions, making it a pure driver's engine.
Bmw
Production years 2007–2013 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1004).
The BMW S65 B40 A is a 3,999 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2007–2013). 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 | 3,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 75.2 mm | |
| Power output | 309 kW (420 PS) @ 8,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME 9.2 with individual throttle bodies | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 202 kg |
The high-revving V8 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 04). Formulated for high-RPM M engines.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all S65 B40 A models (2007–2013) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1004).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output maintained up to 8,400 rpm redline (BMW TIS Doc. A23030).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A23030, A23031, A23032, SIB 11 01 04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1004)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW S65 B40 A was used exclusively in BMW's E92 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 E92 M3, 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 A23030). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('S' for S65 series). The S65 B40 A is visually distinct with red valve cover, individual throttle bodies, and side-mounted intake plenum. Critical differentiation from N63: S65 B40 A uses a 90° V8 architecture with ITB, while N63 is a turbocharged V8 with single throttle body. Service parts are not interchangeable with other BMW engines.
The S65 B40 A'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 (2007–2013) and UK DVSA early-life registration data (2008–2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW S65B40A.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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