Introduction

The M52 is the new 6-cylinder engine that will replace the M50TU engine in the E36 and E39 vehicles. The M52 design is based on the M50 engine with the emphasis placed on producing a high torque. low emission power plant for the next generation of BMW vehicles.

The power output has been increased by 1 HP achieving 190 HP @5300 RPM, while the torque has increased by 14% to207 ft lbs @3950 RPM. The increased torque is available at lower RPM, providing more useful power for typical situations.

The second criteria for the development of the M52 was to design an engine that would meet the current and future demands for lower emissions and noise. The M52 complies with the US federal standards for emission levels as well as the EC limits for noise for the 96 model year.

The M52 engine will use a new engine management system developed by Siemens, called the MS41.1 system. The Siemens system is similar to the Bosch DME systems and meets the 1996 OBD ii requirements for emission control and monitoring. Siemens systems have been in use on BMWs for several years in other markets, however, it will be introduced in the US market for the first time with the M52.