The Shocking Evolution of the BMW M6 Engine Through the Years

M6 Engine Evolution: From Inline-Six to Turbo V8

Bavarian Motor Works, commonly called BMW, is a German multinational manufacturer that makes luxury and high performance cars. Under the supervision of the BMW 6 Series, BMW introduced its first M6 car in 1983. It has a coupe body style that was built-in convertible and Gran coupe body style in their upcoming generations. BMW M6 was built in the first three generations of the 6 Series, but in 2019, its production ended, and it was replaced by the newer model BMW M8 (F91/F92/F93). BMW M6 engine history is very complicated and interesting because its line doesn’t start with V8 or V6 variants. From its beginnings like a modified inline-six to the V8s turbocharged, the BMW M6 always introduced new advancements that pushed its boundaries. In each generation, BMW introduced more innovations and technologies which boosted the automotive industry advancement that cater for the demands and needs of owners with its speed, efficiency and reliability, according to a BMW engine specialist. In this blog, we will discuss some of the BMW M6 engine generations, evolution and advancements that changed the automotive industry forever.

The M88/3 (E24 M635CSi/M6)

BMW introduced its first M6 lineage in 1983 with the M635CSi model of the E24 Series range. This model is powered by an M88/3 DOHC 3.5 L inline-six engine that was a modified version of the BMW M1 supercar. In most of the countries, this model was introduced as the name M635CSi but in North America and Japan, it was simply a model named M6. This engine produces 286 hp (210 kW) at 6500 rpm and 251 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. It is the modified version of the M88/3 straight-six engine used in the BMW M1 supercar. The M635CSi engine has a Wheelbase of 2,620 mm (103 in), a Length of 4,755 mm (187.2 in), a Width of 1,725 mm (67.9 in) and a Height of 1,354 mm (53.3 in). In the North American and Japanese versions, BMW uses an S38B35 engine that produces 256 hp (191 kW; 260PS) and 330 Nm with the same engine speed. This engine was also used in European and other markets at the beginning of summer 1987 with the same specification. Because of its high power and naturally aspirated performance, this engine set the stage for the M6 lineage.

The S85 V10 (E63/E64 M6)

After the first generation E24, it returned in 2005 after the 16 years with the newer model named as S85 V10 E63/E64 generation. BMW introduced this new 5.0 litre V 10 engine that comes with a huge technological marvel. The S85 is a high performance masterpiece that has the capability of generating 500 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. It also includes some of its latest features like a V angle that is turned 90 degrees, lightweight pistons and a forged crankshaft which makes this beast to produce 8250 rpm. Every cylinder of this model has its own electrical control throttle that can ensure reliable and quick throttle response and effective airflow. BMW M6 S85 engine also comes with unique features like double VANOS (variable camshaft timing) and the latest engine management system.

With the release of this beast, this engine won many awards like the “International Engine for the Year” award. This engine has high performance capabilities and power full explosives that provide the owners with an exciting driving experience that is no other car offers on the market. It has a unique sound lend of machinal symptoms and is equally captivating. Because of the success of this engine in the BMW M6, is a testament to BMW’s engineering prowess.

The S63 V8 (F06/F12/F13 M6)

The S85 engine production ended in 2011 and because of the continued innovation in the auto industry, newer engine models are needed that are more capable and more power efficient. In 2012 BMW launched the F06/F12/F13 generation that produced a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine naturally aspirated engine from the past that represents a significant departure. The S63 has two twin-scroll turbochargers nestled with the V of the engine. It is along with the direct injection and Valvetronic that is BMW variable valve lift system. With the combination of these advancements in the new generation of BMW M6 S63 engine, it generates 560 hp and 502 lb-ft of torque, which is a substantial increase over the previous generation V10 engines.

The S63 two twin-scroll turbocharged technology brought a big change in the BMW M6 vehicle’ performance. This engine delivers a huge wave of torque from low revs, that provides efficient acceleration in any gear. Because it didn’t rev as high as the previous generation S85 engine, this new generation engine brought a significant improvement in fuel efficiency. And lastly, this engine sound was still satisfyingly deep and muscular growl.

The S63B44T4 (F90 M5/M8 Competition)

Because the BMW F90 M5 and subsequently the M8 Competition didn’t carry the M6 name, they made an evolution of the newer S63 engine as the S63B44T4. This newer version of the M6 engine comes with the refined twin-turbo V8 engine formula that makes the performance of this engine even greater heights.

This engine feature includes improved turbochargers, a better cooling system and a more efficient fuel injector system that will result in more power and more responsiveness. The M5 Competition model that was introduced in 2014 has generated 617 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. According to BMW, this performance car goes from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.1 seconds.

Future of BMW M6 Engines

As the previous innovation in this high-performance engine, this engine is likely to involve further advancements in the auto industry. Besides current BMW M6 S63 is a very capable and powerful engine that is made with strict emission regulations and is environmentally friendly and the push the greater efficiency likely necessitates the integration of hybrid or even full electric powertrains in the future M models. That means whether a hybrid system paired with a downsized turbo engine or fully electric powertrain remains to be seen. However, one thing always remains. BMW M Series will continually push its boundaries in terms of performance and engine advancements that ensure the BMW M6 remains the big benchmark for high-performance vehicles in heat ever it takes.