S38 engine specs. Nov 18, 2024 · The BMW S38 engine is a high-performance six-cylinder engine developed for BMW sports cars and used from 1986 to 1995. This engine was primarily used in the BMW M5 and M6 models during the late 1980s and early 1990s. In 1992, BMW further enlarged the S38 engine to 3795 cc, with power climbing to 250 kW (340 hp) and torque increasing to 400 N·m (300 lb·ft). Jun 15, 2025 · The BMW S38 engine is a high-performance inline-six engine that has garnered a reputation for its robust engineering and impressive power output. Below are the detailed specifications of the S38 engine. The engine is an in-line with six cylinder bogs of piston type motor, having two overhead camshafts (DONS) at once, which were based on the power unit of the M88 version. S38B35, S38B36, S38B38 Dec 18, 2024 · With a displacement of 3. [1][2] The S38 was originally produced for North America as an equivalent to the M88 with slightly lower power output. . It is distinguished not only by its good power, but also by its large cylinder diameter, which is 1. 8 liters, the s38b38 engine was developed to provide the B36 with high performance. Feb 23, 2026 · A complete guide to the BMW S38 engine — covering the S38B35 and S38B38 variants, technical specs, reliability issues, maintenance tips, and tuning potential for the E28 M5, E34 M5, and Jan 11, 2025 · Below, we delve into the detailed specifications of the S38 engine as used in the E28 and E34 M5 models, providing insights into its design and performance metrics. Dec 18, 2024 · Power unit s38b36 refers to the motors that are built into vehicles of the German concern BMW. It was produced from 1986 to 1995. [3] In North America, the vehicle is badged as "M6" and uses the less powerful BMW S38 engine. The BMW S38 is a straight-6 DOHC petrol engine which replaced the M88 and was produced from 1984–1995. The engine is characterized by its powerful design and is intended for sports cars such as the BMW M5 and special versions of the M-series. 2 mm larger than other engines. [3] Coil-on-plug ignition replaced the traditional distributor which was used on previous S38 engines and the Bosch Motronic 3. BMW s38 Tuning "All you need to know about tuning the BMW s38 engine!" The BMW S38 engine is an iconic powerplant with a production run spanning from 1979 to 1995, representing a pivotal era in automotive engineering. Apr 21, 2016 · BMW S38 engine specs, tuning (naturally aspirated and turbo), common problems, engine oil and oil capacity. Engine BMW S38B36 Especially for the BMW M5 E34 released in 1988, a new sports engine called the S38B36 was designed. 3 fuel injection system was used. To increase displacement and power, the piston stroke was changed by 4 mm. The M635CSi is the first of the BMW M6 model line and is powered by the M88/3 straight-six engine. [4] The eventual successor to the nameplate, the E63 6 Series, was released in 2004 after a 16-year hiatus. Main difference between S38B36 and S38B38, etc. Sep 27, 2014 · The BMW S38 is a straight-6 DOHC piston engine which replaced the M88 and was produced from 1986-1996. Dec 18, 2024 · With a displacement of 3. Reduced gas emissions, light weight, maintaining an acceptable stroke, fuel to air ratio – this makes it one of the best for its production years – 1988-1992 BMW M5 sedan (E34 body). Supplied to the Austrian and Swiss market bmw s38b38, was distinguished by the BMW S38 Engine Guide: Specs, Reliability, and Tuning Before turbocharging took over, before variable valve timing became standard, and before BMW’s M division had anything close to a volume playbook, there was the S38. The basis for this engine was the aspirated M88/3 (S38B35), with a colleague in the series, M30B34, S38 has less in common. Dec 18, 2024 · The BMW S38 engine is a standard, reliable and quite durable engine, still popularly referred to as a simple catalytic converter. It is based on the M88/3 engine. Jul 20, 2025 · Explore the reliability, common problems, and oil specifications for the BMW S38 engine, backed by owner feedback and insights. Other upgrades include: Aug 8, 2025 · Discover the reliability, common problems, and service bulletins for the Engine BMW S38 in this comprehensive review. Supplied to the Austrian and Swiss market bmw s38b38, was distinguished by the BMW S38 Straight-6 engine From 1986 to 1996 The BMW S38 is a straight-6 DOHC piston engine which replaced the M88 and was produced from 1986-1996. sdn nez apg kda lbz faq kml aoz htn hqh mvz frm ytd hyq xvf