B37 vs M50/M52
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
M50/M52
BEST
95/100
+20 points over B37
0
/ 100
ACCEPTABLE
B37
BMW
0
/ 100
BEST
M50/M52
BMW
Specifications
B37
M50/M52
Brand
BMW
BMW
Verdict
ACCEPTABLE
BEST
Reliability
75
95
Years
2015--2020
1990--2000
Displacement
1496 cc
2494 cc
Layout
I3
I6
Type
Diesel
Petrol Na
Power
116 hp
150--170 hp
Known Issues
1
3
Total Risk Cost
€300--€1,000
€330--€850
Character
B37
"3-cylinder modular diesel. Shared architecture with B47/B57. Quiet for a 3-cyl. Limited production span. No major known issues — too few on road for long-term data. Timing chain is front-mounted (good)."
M50/M52
"Smooth, linear, bulletproof. Classic BMW feel. Simple maintenance. Cheap parts."
Issues Comparison
B37 1
● MODERATE
DPF regeneration issues (city use)
M50/M52 3
● MODERATE
Cooling system plastics (tank, housing, impeller)
○ MINOR
VANOS oil seal wear (M52 only)
○ MINOR
Valve cover / oil pan gasket leaks