S68 vs M50/M52
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
M50/M52
BEST
95/100
+20 points over S68
0
/ 100
ACCEPTABLE
S68
BMW
0
/ 100
BEST
M50/M52
BMW
Specifications
S68
M50/M52
Brand
BMW
BMW
Verdict
ACCEPTABLE
BEST
Reliability
75
95
Years
2023--present
1990--2000
Displacement
4395 cc
2494 cc
Layout
V8
I6
Type
Petrol Turbo
Petrol Na
Power
585--727 hp
150--170 hp
Known Issues
1
3
Total Risk Cost
€0--€0
€330--€850
Character
S68
"Latest M V8. XM/M5 G70. Cross-plane crank, 48V mild hybrid on some variants. Too new for long-term data but BMW learned from N63/S63 mistakes. Front-accessible turbos. Early data positive."
M50/M52
"Smooth, linear, bulletproof. Classic BMW feel. Simple maintenance. Cheap parts."
Issues Comparison
S68 1
○ MINOR
Too new for long-term data
M50/M52 3
● MODERATE
Cooling system plastics (tank, housing, impeller)
○ MINOR
VANOS oil seal wear (M52 only)
○ MINOR
Valve cover / oil pan gasket leaks