BMW built the M30B32 from 1976 to 1984. It is a 3.2 L naturally aspirated petrol inline-6 with 197 hp and 285 Nm, part of the M30 family. You will find it in the BMW E28 533i, BMW E24 633CSi and BMW E23 733i.
This guide is about the M30B32 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: 3.2 L, inline-6, naturally aspirated
- Output: 197 hp and 285 Nm
- Production: 1976–1984
- Fitted to: 3 models across 3 chassis generations
- In our stock: ask the desk for the next arrival
M30B32 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | M30B32 |
| Family | M30 |
| Capacity | 3.2 L |
| Layout | Inline-6 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 197 hp |
| Torque | 285 Nm |
| Specific output | 62 hp per litre |
| Production | 1976–1984 |
| Models | 3 |
The M30B32 is a 3.2 L inline-6 petrol engine, naturally aspirated, rated at 197 hp and 285 Nm. BMW built it from 1976 to 1984. That is about 62 hp and 89 Nm per litre, a relaxed tune aimed at torque, durability and economy. Within the M30 family, the M30B34 (218 hp) and M30B35 (211 hp) are more powerful, while the M30B25 (150 hp), M30B28 (184 hp) and M30B30 (188 hp) are milder. It was fitted to the BMW E28 533i, BMW E24 633CSi and BMW E23 733i.
What the code M30B32 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).
- 32 is the capacity in decilitres, so 3.2 litres.
Which BMW models use the M30B32
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E28 533i | second 5 Series | 1981–1988 |
| BMW E24 633CSi | first 6 Series | 1976–1989 |
| BMW E23 733i | first 7 Series | 1977–1986 |
In the E28 second 5 Series (1981–1988), the M30B32 powered the 533i. 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 M30B32 powered the 633CSi. 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 M30B32 powered the 733i. Engines from other models fit the E23 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN.
M30B32 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 |
M30B32 or M30B30?
The M30B30 has 9 hp less than the M30B32 (188 against 197 hp), from 3.0 L instead of 3.2 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.
M30B32 or M30B28?
The M30B28 has 13 hp less than the M30B32 (184 against 197 hp), from 2.8 L instead of 3.2 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.
M30B32 or M30B35?
The M30B35 has 14 hp more than the M30B32 (211 against 197 hp), from 3.5 L instead of 3.2 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 M30B32 problems
The M30B32 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.
M30B32 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 M30B32 fit my car?
Will the M30B32 fit my BMW E28 533i?
The M30B32 is the original engine for the BMW E28 533i, which makes it the straightforward choice. The second 5 Series was built 1981–1988, and the M30B32 was produced 1976–1984, 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 533i?
We do not have an M30B32 on the shelf for the E28 533i 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 M30B32 fit my BMW E24 633CSi?
For the BMW E24 633CSi, the M30B32 is the factory engine and the one to order. The first 6 Series was built 1976–1989, and the M30B32 was produced 1976–1984, 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 633CSi?
We do not have an M30B32 on the shelf for the E24 633CSi 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 M30B32 fit my BMW E23 733i?
The M30B32 is the original engine for the BMW E23 733i, which makes it the straightforward choice. The first 7 Series was built 1977–1986, and the M30B32 was produced 1976–1984, 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 733i?
We do not have an M30B32 on the shelf for the E23 733i 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.
M30B32 prices
We do not have an M30B32 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 M30B32: checklist
- 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.
- Look at the oil and coolant. Clean oil without metal particles and coolant without oil are good signs. Milky oil, oily coolant or a burnt smell mean the engine needs further checks before it is fitted.
- Warranty terms in writing. Read what the warranty covers, how long it runs and what fitting conditions apply. Most warranties require a qualified workshop, new fluids and filters, and replacement of the cooling parts that caused the original failure.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 M30B32
Does a used M30B35 engine come with a warranty?
Yes. 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.
The warranty does not cover damage from wrong fitting, overheating, low oil, wrong fluids or fuel, engines that were opened or modified without our approval, or labour and towing costs.
To claim, send us your order number, a short description of the problem, photos or a video, and a mechanic's report if we ask for one. If the claim is approved, we repair, replace or refund the engine.
Keep the receipts for the fitting, the oil and the filters. They make any claim quick and simple.
See all M30 Engines · Search M30B35 in the shop
Can you check if an M30B35 fits my car with my VIN?
Yes, and it is free. Send the 17-character VIN of your car and, if you have it, the gearbox code. We check the engine family, the build year window and the parts your car needs.
For the M30B35, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW E28 535i, BMW E34 535i, BMW E24 635CSi, BMW E23 735i and BMW E32 735i.
We only reserve an engine once the match is confirmed, so you never pay for the wrong unit. You can reach the Hamburg desk by email at autowerkeengines@gmail.com, or by phone and WhatsApp on +49 15510 030835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 16:00 CET.
You can also use the VIN check on our site. It reads the year, the make, the model and the engine from the public vehicle register.
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.
Is the BMW M30B34 a diesel or petrol engine?
The M30B34 is a petrol engine. It is a 3.4 liter (3,430 cc) inline 6, SOHC, 12 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 M30 Engines · Search M30B34 in the shop
Will the M30B35 engine fit my BMW E32 735i?
Yes, if your BMW E32 735i was built with the M30B35. BMW used this 3.5 liter (3,430 cc) petrol engine with 155 kW (211 HP) in the E32 735i from about 1982 to 1993.
In our records the M30B35 is the engine for the E32 735i, 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 M30 Engines · Search M30B35 in the shop
What should I check on a used BMW M30 engine?
Start with the basics: the engine code on the block, the recorded mileage and the photos. Make sure the code matches your car and the parts you need are on the unit.
On an M30 petrol engine, a fitter usually checks the spark plugs, the coils, the timing side and the oil seals. These parts are easy to check before fitting and easy to change if needed.
If you want more photos or a short video of a unit, ask the desk and we send them before you pay. An inspection certificate can travel with the order on request.
Once fitted, change the oil and filter early and drive gently at first. Report any problem right away so the warranty stays valid.
See all M30 Engines · Inspection certificate
Which cars use the BMW M30B35 engine?
BMW fitted the M30B35 to the BMW E28 535i, BMW E34 535i, BMW E24 635CSi, BMW E23 735i and BMW E32 735i. These cars were built with this engine from about 1982 to 1993.
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.
Other engines in the same M30 family are the M30B34 (218 HP). They look alike but differ in power, parts and electronics, so they are not always a direct swap.
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
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.
Delivery, warranty and payment
Before an M30B32 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.
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.
