M50 vs B58
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
B58
BEST
93/100
+5 points over M50
0
/ 100
BEST
M50
BMW
0
/ 100
BEST
B58
BMW
Specifications
M50
B58
Brand
BMW
BMW
Verdict
BEST
BEST
Reliability
88
93
Years
1990--1996
2015--present
Displacement
2494 cc
2998 cc
Layout
I6
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Turbo
Power
150--192 hp
326--387 hp
Known Issues
2
3
Total Risk Cost
€400--€1,100
€430--€1,000
Character
M50
"Cast iron block legend. One of BMW's most reliable ever. M50TU added single VANOS. Strong internals handle 300k+ km. Cooling plastics only weakness."
B58
"Possibly BMWs best engine ever. Forged internals, insane tuning (600hp+). 300k+ km."
Issues Comparison
M50 2
▲ HIGH
Water pump plastic impeller failure
● MODERATE
VANOS unit wear (M50TU)
B58 3
● MODERATE
Coolant expansion tank / line failure — early units
○ MINOR
Plastic charge pipe crack
○ MINOR
Valve cover gasket oil leak