M44 vs M50/M52

Side-by-side reliability comparison

Higher reliability score
M50/M52 BEST 95/100
+17 points over M44
0 / 100
BUY M44 BMW
0 / 100
BEST M50/M52 BMW

Specifications

M44
M50/M52
Brand
BMW
BMW
Verdict
BUY
BEST
Reliability
78
95
Years
1996--2001
1990--2000
Displacement
1895 cc
2494 cc
Layout
I4
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Na
Power
140 hp
150--170 hp
Known Issues
2
3
Total Risk Cost
€250--€750
€330--€850

Character

M44

"DOHC successor to M42. E36 318is and Z3 1.9. Smooth rev-happy nature. Roller rockers. Reliable daily driver."

M50/M52

"Smooth, linear, bulletproof. Classic BMW feel. Simple maintenance. Cheap parts."

Issues Comparison

M44 2

● MODERATE
Oil filter housing gasket leak €100--€250 60,000 km--120,000 km
● MODERATE
Plastic coolant pipe rear disintegration €150--€500 60,000 km--120,000 km

M50/M52 3

● MODERATE
Cooling system plastics (tank, housing, impeller) €150--€350 100,000 km--180,000 km
○ MINOR
VANOS oil seal wear (M52 only) €80--€200 120,000 km--200,000 km
○ MINOR
Valve cover / oil pan gasket leaks €100--€300 150,000 km--∞

Models

M44 2

Z3 E36/7 1996--1999 3 Series E36 1996--1999

M50/M52 12

3 Series E36 1990--1994 3 Series E36 1990--1995 3 Series E36 1994--1999 5 Series E39 1996--2000 3 Series E46 1998--2001 5 Series E39 1996--2000 3 Series E36 1995--1999 3 Series E46 1998--2000 5 Series E39 1996--2000 Z3 E36/7 1997--2000 3 Series E36 1995--1999 3 Series E46 1998--2000
Full M44 Report Full M50/M52 Report