BMW built the M30B28 from 1968 to 1994. It is a 2.8 L naturally aspirated petrol inline-6 with 184 hp and 240 Nm, part of the M30 family. You will find it in the BMW E28 528i, BMW E24 628CSi and BMW E23 728i.
This guide is about the M30B28 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other M30 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our M30 guide.
- Capacity and layout: 2.8 L, inline-6, naturally aspirated
- Output: 184 hp and 240 Nm
- Production: 1968–1994
- Fitted to: 3 models across 3 chassis generations
- In our stock: ask the desk for the next arrival
M30B28 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | M30B28 |
| Family | M30 |
| Capacity | 2.8 L |
| Layout | Inline-6 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 184 hp |
| Torque | 240 Nm |
| Specific output | 66 hp per litre |
| Production | 1968–1994 |
| Models | 3 |
The M30B28 is a 2.8 L inline-6 petrol engine, naturally aspirated, rated at 184 hp and 240 Nm. BMW built it from 1968 to 1994. That is about 66 hp and 86 Nm per litre, a relaxed tune aimed at torque, durability and economy. Within the M30 family, the M30B30 (188 hp), M30B32 (197 hp) and M30B34 (218 hp) are more powerful, while the M30B25 (150 hp) is milder. It was fitted to the BMW E28 528i, BMW E24 628CSi and BMW E23 728i.
What the code M30B28 means
- M marks an M-series code, the naming BMW used for its engine families up to the early 2000s.
- 30 is the family number.
- B stands for petrol (from the German Benzin).
- 28 is the capacity in decilitres, so 2.8 litres.
Which BMW models use the M30B28
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E28 528i | second 5 Series | 1981–1988 |
| BMW E24 628CSi | first 6 Series | 1976–1989 |
| BMW E23 728i | first 7 Series | 1977–1986 |
In the E28 second 5 Series (1981–1988), the M30B28 powered the 528i. Engines from other models fit the E28 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E28 engines
In the E24 first 6 Series (1976–1989), the M30B28 powered the 628CSi. Engines from other models fit the E24 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E24 engines
In the E23 first 7 Series (1977–1986), the M30B28 powered the 728i. Engines from other models fit the E23 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN.
M30B28 compared with other M30 versions
| Code | Capacity | Power | Torque | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M30B25 | 2.5 L | 150 hp | 215 Nm | 1968–1994 |
| M30B28 | 2.8 L | 184 hp | 240 Nm | 1968–1994 |
| M30B30 | 3.0 L | 188 hp | 260 Nm | 1968–1994 |
| M30B32 | 3.2 L | 197 hp | 285 Nm | 1976–1984 |
| M30B34 | 3.4 L | 218 hp | 310 Nm | 1982–1994 |
| M30B35 | 3.5 L | 211 hp | 305 Nm | 1988–1994 |
M30B28 or M30B30?
The M30B30 has 4 hp more than the M30B28 (188 against 184 hp), from 3.0 L instead of 2.8 L, and was built 1968–1994. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.
M30B28 or M30B32?
The M30B32 has 13 hp more than the M30B28 (197 against 184 hp), from 3.2 L instead of 2.8 L, and was built 1976–1984. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.
M30B28 or M30B35?
The M30B35 has 27 hp more than the M30B28 (211 against 184 hp), from 3.5 L instead of 2.8 L, and was built 1988–1994. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.
Common M30B28 problems
The M30B28 shares its weak points with the rest of the M30 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the M30 guide.
| Known fault | What to check |
|---|---|
| Head gasket and cracked heads | Do a compression test and look for bubbles in the expansion tank with the engine running. |
| Cooling system age | Check the fan clutch resistance hot and the radiator for blocked cores. |
| Rocker arm wear | Inspect the cam surface with the valve cover off. |
| Timing chain tensioner | Listen for a cold-start rattle at the front of the engine. |
| Oil pressure sender and leaks | Check for oil around the filter housing and the bellhousing. |
Oil pressure sender and leaks. Sender leaks, valve cover gaskets and rear main seals seep with age.
M30B28 maintenance
- 10W-40 or 15W-40, about 5.75 litres with filter on most versions.
- Oil every 7,500 km; valve clearances every 15,000 to 20,000 km.
- Duplex timing chain at the front with a hydraulic tensioner; no service interval.
Will the M30B28 fit my car?
Will the M30B28 fit my BMW E28 528i?
Yes, the BMW E28 528i left the factory with the M30B28, so an M30B28 from another car is the direct replacement. The second 5 Series was built 1981–1988, and the M30B28 was produced 1968–1994, 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 E28 528i?
We do not have an M30B28 on the shelf for the E28 528i 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.
Will the M30B28 fit my BMW E24 628CSi?
For the BMW E24 628CSi, the M30B28 is the factory engine and the one to order. The first 6 Series was built 1976–1989, and the M30B28 was produced 1968–1994, 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 E24 628CSi?
We do not have an M30B28 on the shelf for the E24 628CSi 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.
Will the M30B28 fit my BMW E23 728i?
For the BMW E23 728i, the M30B28 is the factory engine and the one to order. The first 7 Series was built 1977–1986, and the M30B28 was produced 1968–1994, 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 E23 728i?
We do not have an M30B28 on the shelf for the E23 728i 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.
M30B28 prices
We do not have an M30B28 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.
Buying a used M30B28: checklist
- Photographs from every side. Good suppliers photograph the actual engine you will receive. Look for the block stamp, the sump, the timing cover and any broken brackets or connectors in the pictures.
- 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.
- 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.
- List of what is fitted. Engines are sold with different ancillaries: some have the turbo, injectors, manifolds, alternator and starter, others are long blocks. Agree the list in writing so you know which parts must come from your old engine.
- 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.
Questions about the M30B28
How much is a replacement M30B35 engine for a BMW E32 735i?
A used M30B35 for the BMW E32 735i costs from about 1.800 € to 2.950 € 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 M30B35 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 M30 Engines · Search M30B35 in the shop
How much does a used BMW M30B34 engine cost?
A used BMW M30B34 engine in our yard usually costs between 2.150 € and 3.450 €. The exact price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Our units show recorded mileage from about 22,000 km up to around 200,000 km. Lower mileage and more ancillaries mean a higher price. Each listing shows its own price, and the price you see is the price you pay. Prices include VAT for private buyers.
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. If you order a gearbox or a second engine on the same order, the fee is still charged once.
Inside the EU there is no import duty. For the UK and other non-EU countries, import duty and local VAT are paid by the receiver, and we supply a commercial invoice.
See all M30 Engines · Search M30B34 in the shop
How long does delivery of an M30B35 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 M30 Engines · Search M30B35 in the shop
How much is a replacement M30B35 engine for a BMW E23 735i?
A used M30B35 for the BMW E23 735i costs from about 1.800 € to 2.950 € 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 M30B35 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 M30 Engines · Search M30B35 in the shop
Will the M30B35 engine fit my BMW E23 735i?
Yes, if your BMW E23 735i was built with the M30B35. BMW used this 3.5 liter (3,430 cc) petrol engine with 155 kW (211 HP) in the E23 735i from about 1982 to 1993.
In our records the M30B35 is the engine for the E23 735i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E23 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 M30 Engines · Search M30B35 in the shop
How much power and torque does the BMW M30B35 have?
From the factory the BMW M30B35 makes 155 kW (211 HP) and 305 Nm of torque. It is a 3.5 liter (3,430 cc) inline 6, SOHC, 12 valve petrol engine with no turbo (naturally aspirated).
Without a turbo, the power builds smoothly with the revs. A clean air intake, healthy ignition and the correct fuel are key to getting the full figure.
A used engine reaches its factory numbers when it is fitted with the matching engine computer and software, and serviced with the right oil and filters. If the engine computer from your car is a different version, a specialist may need to code it.
Every M30B35 on our site lists its year and mileage. You can ask for extra photos, a close-up of the code stamp or a short video before you order.
See all M30 Engines · Search M30B35 in the shop
What is the difference between the BMW M30 engines?
BMW M30 big-six petrol engines for E28, E24, E23 and E34. We list 2 versions: M30B35 (3.5 liter (3,430 cc), 155 kW (211 HP), 1982 to 1993); M30B34 (3.4 liter (3,430 cc), 160 kW (218 HP), 1985 to 1988).
The versions share the same basic design, but the power, the turbo or injection set-up, the electronics and the emission standard change. The right one for you is the one your car was built with.
The M30 family was used in chassis E28, E34, E24, E23 and E32. Before a unit is listed, the yard checks the engine code against the listing, writes down the parts fitted to it, seals every opening and photographs the real engine you will receive.
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.
Which years were BMW M30 engines made?
BMW built the M30 engines we list from about 1982 to 1993. The M30B35 ran from 1982 to 1993. The M30B34 ran from 1985 to 1988.
They went into chassis E28, E34, E24, E23 and E32. The exact year of a car matters, because BMW sometimes changed the engine version or its parts in the middle of a model's life.
Each listing in our yard names the engine year, so you can match it to the build date of 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.
What comes with a used M30B34 engine?
Each M30B34 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 M30 Engines · Search M30B34 in the shop
What should I replace when I fit a used M30B34 engine?
A used engine lasts longest when it starts life in your car with fresh fluids and new seals. Check the spark plugs and the ignition coils, and make sure the fuel lines are clean and tight before you crank the engine. Fit a new oil filter and fresh oil of the grade BMW lists for this engine, and refill the coolant with the correct BMW antifreeze mix. Use new gaskets for the exhaust manifold, the intake and the sump plug, and check every hose clip before the first start.
Look at the engine mounts and the clutch or the torque converter while the engine is out. Old mounts can crack a new engine's brackets, and a worn clutch is much easier to change now.
Before the first start, turn the engine over without fuel until the oil pressure light goes out. Then let it idle, check for leaks, and drive gently for the first few hundred kilometres.
The warranty asks for fitting by a qualified mechanic and the correct oil, coolant and filters. Keep your receipts in case you ever need to make a claim.
See all M30 Engines · Search M30B34 in the shop
How much is a replacement M30B35 engine for a BMW E28 535i?
A used M30B35 for the BMW E28 535i costs from about 1.800 € to 2.950 € 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 M30B35 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 M30 Engines · Search M30B35 in the shop
Will the M30B34 engine fit my BMW E24 M635CSi?
Yes, if your BMW E24 M635CSi was built with the M30B34. BMW used this 3.4 liter (3,430 cc) petrol engine with 160 kW (218 HP) in the E24 M635CSi from about 1985 to 1988.
In our records the M30B34 is the engine for the E24 M635CSi, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E24 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 M30 Engines · Search M30B34 in the shop
Delivery, warranty and payment
Every M30B28 we sell is drained, sealed at each opening, strapped to a heat-treated pallet and shrink-wrapped before it leaves Hamburg. You receive photographs of the packed engine and a tracking number.
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.
A 12-month warranty covers eligible internal failure when the engine is fitted by a qualified workshop with new fluids and filters. You can pay by card, bank transfer or crypto and receive the invoice by email straight away.
