The BMW 750i in the second 7 Series generation (E32 and E38, built 1986–1994) was built with 3 different engines over its life: the M70B50 (300 hp, 1987–1994), the M73B54 (326 hp, 1994–2001) and the M73TUB54 (326 hp, 1998–2001).
Below you will find how to identify the engine in your 750i, the faults to look for, current prices for a replacement and the swap options that make sense.
- Generation: second 7 Series, 1986–1994
- Body styles: E32 (saloon) and E38 (saloon)
- Engines: M70B50, M73B54, M73TUB54
- Output: 300 hp and 326 hp
- Replacement engines in stock: ask the desk for the next arrival
Which engine is in your 750i?
| Engine code | Built | Power | Torque | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M70B50 | 1987–1994 | 300 hp | 450 Nm | 5.0 L petrol V12, naturally aspirated |
| M73B54 | 1994–2001 | 326 hp | 490 Nm | 5.4 L petrol V12, naturally aspirated |
| M73TUB54 | 1998–2001 | 326 hp | 490 Nm | 5.4 L petrol V12, naturally aspirated |
M70B50 in the 750i
The M70B50 was used in the E32 750i, built 1987–1994. It is a 5.0 L naturally aspirated petrol V12 with 300 hp and 450 Nm. Compared with the M73B54 (326 hp) and M73TUB54 (326 hp), it is the mildest.
Reading the code: M marks an M-series code, the naming BMW used for its engine families up to the early 2000s; 70 is the family number; B stands for petrol (from the German Benzin); 50 is the capacity in decilitres, so 5.0 litres.
M73B54 in the 750i
The M73B54 was used in the E38 750i, built 1994–2001. It is a 5.4 L naturally aspirated petrol V12 with 326 hp and 490 Nm. Compared with the M70B50 (300 hp) and M73TUB54 (326 hp), it is in between.
Reading the code: M marks an M-series code, the naming BMW used for its engine families up to the early 2000s; 73 is the family number; B stands for petrol (from the German Benzin); 54 is the capacity in decilitres, so 5.4 litres.
M73TUB54 in the 750i
The M73TUB54 was used in the E38 750i, built 1998–2001. It is a 5.4 L naturally aspirated petrol V12 with 326 hp and 490 Nm. Compared with the M70B50 (300 hp) and M73B54 (326 hp), it is in between.
750i engines by model year
| Model year | Engine |
|---|---|
| 1987 | M70B50 (300 hp) |
| 1988 | M70B50 (300 hp) |
| 1989 | M70B50 (300 hp) |
| 1990 | M70B50 (300 hp) |
| 1991 | M70B50 (300 hp) |
| 1992 | M70B50 (300 hp) |
| 1993 | M70B50 (300 hp) |
| 1994 | M70B50 (300 hp), M73B54 (326 hp) |
The engine changed once during the E32 and E38 run, in 1994. Changes usually come with BMW's mid-life update (LCI) or a new emissions standard, so a car registered early in a year can still have the older engine. The VIN settles it.
Other cars with the same engine as the 750i
A replacement engine does not have to come from another 750i. These models left the factory with the same engine code, so a unit from any of them is a candidate donor once the sump, mounts and ancillaries are matched to your car.
M70B50: BMW E31 850i.
M73B54: BMW E31 850Ci.
M73TUB54: BMW E38 750iL.
How to confirm your engine code
Because the 750i used more than one engine, the badge alone does not tell you which one your car has. The build date is the first clue; the VIN is the proof. Send us the last seven characters of the VIN and we read the engine code from BMW's records, or look for the code stamped on the block. How to find your BMW engine code.
Known 750i engine problems
M70B50, M73B54 and M73TUB54 (M70 and M73 family)
The M70B50, M73B54 and M73TUB54 in the 750i share the known weak points of the M70 and M73 family. Full M70 and M73 guide.
| Known fault | What to check |
|---|---|
| Wiring harness | Inspect the harness near the heads. |
| Cooling | Pressure-test the system. |
| Dual engine management | Read both ECUs for fault codes. |
| Fuel system | Check fuel pressure. |
Wiring harness. Harness insulation becomes brittle with heat and age.
Cooling. Radiators, hoses and fan clutches fail with age.
Dual engine management. A fault on one bank's management system causes rough running.
Fuel system. Fuel pumps, pressure regulators and injectors age.
M70B50, M73B54 and M73TUB54 (M70 and M73 family)
The M70B50, M73B54 and M73TUB54 in the 750i share the known weak points of the M70 and M73 family. Full M70 and M73 guide.
| Known fault | What to check |
|---|---|
| Wiring harness | Inspect the harness near the heads. |
| Cooling | Pressure-test the system. |
| Dual engine management | Read both ECUs for fault codes. |
| Fuel system | Check fuel pressure. |
Wiring harness. Harness insulation becomes brittle with heat and age.
Cooling. Radiators, hoses and fan clutches fail with age.
Dual engine management. A fault on one bank's management system causes rough running.
Fuel system. Fuel pumps, pressure regulators and injectors age.
Symptoms to watch for on the 750i
Rattle for a few seconds after a cold start. The classic sign of a weak timing chain tensioner or stretched chain. It must be checked quickly: a chain that jumps a tooth can bend valves.
Looking after the 750i engine
M70 and M73 engines
- Oil: 5W-40 or 10W-40 synthetic, about 7.5 litres.
- Service interval: Oil every 10,000 km or yearly.
- Timing drive: Single-row timing chains, one per bank.
- Workshop notes: Keep the cooling system fresh. Check both ECUs before purchase.
M70 and M73 engines
- Oil: 5W-40 or 10W-40 synthetic, about 7.5 litres.
- Service interval: Oil every 10,000 km or yearly.
- Timing drive: Single-row timing chains, one per bank.
- Workshop notes: Keep the cooling system fresh. Check both ECUs before purchase.
Buying a used engine for the 750i: checklist
- Why your old engine failed. Before fitting a replacement, find out why the original failed. An overheating radiator, a blocked intercooler or a failed turbo can destroy a second engine if they are not fixed.
- Ask how the donor car was damaged. Most good used engines come from cars with body damage. A front-end impact can crack sensors, the timing cover or the sump; a rear or side impact usually leaves the engine untouched. The yard records the damage on each unit.
- Confirm the exact engine code. Read the code stamped on the block and compare it with the code for your car. Send us the last seven characters of the VIN and we confirm the match before anything is paid.
- Sump, oil pickup and drive variants. Rear-drive, xDrive and front-drive cars can use different sumps, oil pickups and engine mounts even with the same engine code. Check that the sump matches your subframe and front axle.
- Gearbox and flywheel match. Manual and automatic engines differ at the flywheel or flexplate, and sometimes at the crankshaft spigot. Make sure the engine you buy matches your gearbox or that you transfer the right parts.
- Timing chain noise. Listen for a rattle at the front of the engine for the first seconds after a cold start. On an engine that cannot be run, look at the chain guides through the oil filler or with the valve cover off.
- Originality and numbers. For collectible cars, the engine number and correct ancillaries add value. Photograph the stamp and keep it with the car's documents.
- Both cylinder banks and both ECUs. V12 engines often use separate management for each bank. Read faults from both and compare compression across all twelve cylinders.
BMW 750i replacement engine cost
We do not have a 750i engine on the shelf at the moment. Send us your VIN or the code you need and the desk will tell you when the next unit arrives and what it will cost.
On top of the engine, budget for the workshop's labour and the parts that are best replaced while the engine is out: engine mounts, the rear main seal, cooling parts, a clutch or converter seal, fluids and filters.
Will it fit my 750i?
Will the M73TUB54 fit my BMW E38 750i?
For the BMW E38 750i, the M73TUB54 is the factory engine and the one to order. The third 7 Series was built 1994–2001, and the M73TUB54 was produced 1998–2001, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E38 750i?
We do not have an M73TUB54 on the shelf for the E38 750i at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Engine swaps and upgrades for the 750i
These engines were fitted to other versions of the E32 and E38 at the factory, which makes them the most practical upgrades: the body was designed around them and many parts are shared.
| Engine | Factory model | Power | Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| M67D44 | E38 740d | 330 hp | +4 hp |
Can I fit the M67D44 in my 750i?
It is a full conversion: the M67D44 runs on diesel and the M73TUB54 on petrol, so the fuel system, wiring, engine control unit, instrument coding and usually the gearbox change too. The gain is 4 hp and 260 Nm. In Germany and most of Europe an engine swap must be inspected and registered.
Fitting a replacement engine in the 750i
- Inspect or replace the timing chain parts. Look at the guides and tensioner. On high-mileage engines, replacing them now costs far less than doing it later.
- Fill with the right oil and prime it. Fill with new oil of the correct specification and a new filter. Crank with the fuel and ignition disabled until oil pressure builds.
- Coding and adaptations. On modern BMWs, the engine ECU must be matched to the car's immobiliser (CAS, FEM or BDC). Reset adaptations, register the battery and clear faults with diagnostic software.
- First start and leak check. Start the engine, let it idle and watch oil pressure, temperature and fault codes. Check for leaks and bleed the cooling system.
- First 1,000 km. Drive gently for the first few hundred kilometres, vary the engine speed and avoid full load. Change the oil and filter after about 1,000 km to remove any assembly debris.
The full fitting and first-start procedure.
750i engine questions
How much is a replacement M70B50 engine for a BMW E32 750i?
A used M70B50 for the BMW E32 750i costs from about 3.850 € to 5.950 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M70B50 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M70 Engines · Search M70B50 in the shop
How much is a replacement M73B54 engine for a BMW E38 750i?
A used M73B54 for the BMW E38 750i costs from about 4.150 € to 6.450 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M73B54 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M73 Engines · Search M73B54 in the shop
Will the M70B50 engine fit my BMW E32 750i?
Yes, if your BMW E32 750i was built with the M70B50. BMW used this 5.0 liter (4,988 cc) petrol engine with 220 kW (300 HP) in the E32 750i from about 1987 to 1994.
In our records the M70B50 is the engine for the E32 750i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E32 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M70 Engines · Search M70B50 in the shop
How do I know a used M70B50 engine is in good shape?
The photos on each listing show the actual engine, not a stock picture. The yard checks the code, records what is bolted on, and seals the openings before the engine is offered. An inspection certificate for the unit can travel with the order when you ask for it.
When you look at a listing, check the recorded mileage, the year and the photos of the ports and the stamp. Ask for photos of anything you want to see closer. Ask the desk for more pictures of any listing. We are happy to show the stamp, the ports and the ancillaries before you decide.
On a petrol engine like the M70B50, a careful fitter will also look at the spark plugs, the coils and the timing side before the engine goes in.
If the engine fails inside under normal use, the warranty covers you. Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop.
See all M70 Engines · Search M70B50 in the shop
Is the BMW M70B50 a diesel or petrol engine?
The M70B50 is a petrol engine. It is a 5.0 liter (4,988 cc) V12, SOHC, 24 valve unit with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and it was built to the Euro 1 emission standard.
The emission standard matters for registration and for low-emission zones in many cities. When you replace an engine with the same code, the car keeps the same paperwork and the same emission class.
Petrol versions need the correct catalytic converters and oxygen sensors on the car to stay legal and to keep the engine computer happy. Reuse the parts from your car if they are in good condition.
If you are not sure which version you need, send us your VIN. We tell you the right code for free.
See all M70 Engines · Search M70B50 in the shop
How much is a replacement M70B50 engine for a BMW E32 750i?
A used M70B50 for the BMW E32 750i costs from about 3.850 € to 5.950 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M70B50 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M70 Engines · Search M70B50 in the shop
How long does delivery of an M73B54 engine take?
Orders confirmed before 14:00 CET on a working day leave Hamburg the same day. Later and weekend orders leave the next working day. Delivery to the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, Luxembourg and Denmark takes 1 to 3 working days.
Spain, Italy, Portugal, Poland, Czechia, Austria, Ireland, the Nordics and the Baltics take 2 to 5 working days. Greek and Spanish islands, Malta, Cyprus and remote areas take 4 to 8 working days. The UK and other countries outside the EU are quoted one by one.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Every engine is drained, sealed at each opening, strapped to a heat-treated pallet and shrink-wrapped, then photographed before it leaves the yard.
You get a tracking number when the pallet is collected. Check the wrapping before you sign, and note any damage on the paperwork.
See all M73 Engines · Search M73B54 in the shop
What comes with a used M70B50 engine?
Each M70B50 is sold as described on its own listing. The yard writes down the parts that are fitted to that unit, such as the turbo, the injectors, the manifolds or the alternator, so you know what arrives.
Some units are long engines with few ancillaries, others are more complete. If you need a part that is not listed, ask the desk. We often have the matching items in the yard.
Every engine is drained, sealed at each opening, strapped to a heat-treated pallet and shrink-wrapped, then photographed before it leaves the yard.
On delivery, the carrier brings the pallet to the kerb or a loading bay. Please have a forklift, a pallet truck or an engine crane ready.
See all M70 Engines · Search M70B50 in the shop
Which cars use the BMW M70B50 engine?
BMW fitted the M70B50 to the BMW E32 750i and BMW E31 850i. These cars were built with this engine from about 1987 to 1994.
The badge on the boot is not enough to be sure. The same model name can hide two different engines, for example after a facelift or a change in emission rules. Always read the engine code stamped on the block, or look it up with your VIN.
The M70B50 is the only M70 version we list, which makes it easy to pick, but the wiring and the engine computer still need to match your car.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M70 Engines · Search M70B50 in the shop
How much is a replacement M70B50 engine for a BMW E31 850i?
A used M70B50 for the BMW E31 850i costs from about 3.850 € to 5.950 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M70B50 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M70 Engines · Search M70B50 in the shop
Delivery, warranty and payment
Before a 750i engine leaves our Hamburg yard it is drained of oil and coolant, every opening is sealed, and it is strapped to a pallet and wrapped. We send photographs of the packed unit and the tracking details.
Door-to-door delivery is included to the address you give at checkout. Typical delivery takes three to five working days within Germany and neighbouring countries and five to ten working days to the rest of Europe and the UK.
Every engine carries a 12-month warranty on eligible internal failure when a qualified workshop fits it with new fluids and filters. Payment is by card, bank transfer or crypto; your invoice is emailed as soon as you order.
All E32 and E38 engines · M70 and M73 engine guide · M70 and M73 engine guide · BMW 750i engines for sale · Send us your VIN
