Engine Identification

Engine Identification
BMW engines are identified by a combined Alpha/numeric code. Like the internal model designation it is a code used by the engineering and technical development teams during the design stages of the engine.

The letter is first. Currently, there are only two possible letters:
- M - for standard production engines
- S - for Motorsport engines (Motorsport is a separate special racing division of BMW)

After the letter are two digits that identify the engine. Current US BMW models are equipped with the following engines:







Previous BMW engines are as follows:







Future replacement engines in development for existing engines are:
- M44 - 1.9 liter 4 cylinder - replacement for the M42.
- M52 - 2.8 liter 6 cylinder - replacement for the M50TU.
- M62 - 3.5 and 4.4 liter V8 cylinder - replacement for the 3.0 and 4.0 liter M60 respectfully.

Engine Displacement Identification







In technical literature an additional group of 3 digits follows the basic engine code. These digits identify the required fuel type of the engine and it's displacement.

Engine displacement can always be determined by the engine specification plate. This plate is stamped into the engine in various locations. The first group of numbers is the displacement and the second is the number of cylinders. For example:







Engine Specification Plate Locations






















The older engines have the specification plate located as follows: