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 €200--€500 60,000 km--120,000 km
● MODERATE
VANOS unit wear (M50TU) €200--€600 100,000 km--200,000 km

B58 3

● MODERATE
Coolant expansion tank / line failure — early units €150--€350 60,000 km--120,000 km
○ MINOR
Plastic charge pipe crack €80--€200 60,000 km--150,000 km
○ MINOR
Valve cover gasket oil leak €200--€450 80,000 km--160,000 km

Models

Full M50 Report Full B58 Report