M50/M52 vs B58
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
M50/M52
BEST
95/100
+2 points over B58
0
/ 100
BEST
M50/M52
BMW
0
/ 100
BEST
B58
BMW
Specifications
M50/M52
B58
Brand
BMW
BMW
Verdict
BEST
BEST
Reliability
95
93
Years
1990--2000
2015--present
Displacement
2494 cc
2998 cc
Layout
I6
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Turbo
Power
150--170 hp
326--387 hp
Known Issues
3
3
Total Risk Cost
€330--€850
€430--€1,000
Character
M50/M52
"Smooth, linear, bulletproof. Classic BMW feel. Simple maintenance. Cheap parts."
B58
"Possibly BMWs best engine ever. Forged internals, insane tuning (600hp+). 300k+ km."
Issues Comparison
M50/M52 3
● MODERATE
Cooling system plastics (tank, housing, impeller)
○ MINOR
VANOS oil seal wear (M52 only)
○ MINOR
Valve cover / oil pan gasket leaks
B58 3
● MODERATE
Coolant expansion tank / line failure — early units
○ MINOR
Plastic charge pipe crack
○ MINOR
Valve cover gasket oil leak