BMW built the M30B35 from 1988 to 1994. It is a 3.5 L naturally aspirated petrol inline-6 with 211 hp and 305 Nm, part of the M30 family. You will find it in the BMW E34 535i and BMW E32 735i.
This guide is about the M30B35 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: 3.5 L, inline-6, naturally aspirated
- Output: 211 hp and 305 Nm
- Production: 1988–1994
- Fitted to: 2 models across 2 chassis generations
- In our stock: ask the desk for the next arrival
M30B35 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | M30B35 |
| Family | M30 |
| Capacity | 3.5 L |
| Layout | Inline-6 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 211 hp |
| Torque | 305 Nm |
| Specific output | 60 hp per litre |
| Production | 1988–1994 |
| Models | 2 |
M30B35: 3.5 L, inline-6, petrol, naturally aspirated. Output is 211 hp with 305 Nm of torque, and production ran from 1988 to 1994. That is about 60 hp and 87 Nm per litre, a relaxed tune aimed at torque, durability and economy. Within the M30 family, the M30B34 (218 hp) is more powerful, while the M30B25 (150 hp), M30B28 (184 hp) and M30B30 (188 hp) are milder. It was fitted to the BMW E34 535i and BMW E32 735i.
What the code M30B35 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).
- 35 is the capacity in decilitres, so 3.5 litres.
Which BMW models use the M30B35
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E34 535i | third 5 Series | 1988–1996 |
| BMW E32 735i | second 7 Series | 1986–1994 |
In the E34 third 5 Series (1988–1996), the M30B35 powered the 535i. Engines from other models fit the E34 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E34 engines
In the E32 second 7 Series (1986–1994), the M30B35 powered the 735i. Engines from other models fit the E32 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E32 engines
M30B35 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 |
M30B35 or M30B34?
The M30B34 has 7 hp more than the M30B35 (218 against 211 hp), from 3.4 L instead of 3.5 L, and was built 1982–1994. 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.
M30B35 or M30B32?
The M30B32 has 14 hp less than the M30B35 (197 against 211 hp), from 3.2 L instead of 3.5 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.
M30B35 or M30B30?
The M30B30 has 23 hp less than the M30B35 (188 against 211 hp), from 3.0 L instead of 3.5 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.
Common M30B35 problems
The M30B35 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. |
Timing chain tensioner. The duplex chain lasts, but the tensioner piston and guide rails wear on high-mileage units.
M30B35 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 M30B35 fit my car?
M30B35 prices
We do not have an M30B35 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 M30B35: 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 M30B35
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Will the M30B35 engine fit my BMW E28 535i?
Yes, if your BMW E28 535i was built with the M30B35. BMW used this 3.5 liter (3,430 cc) petrol engine with 155 kW (211 HP) in the E28 535i from about 1982 to 1993.
In our records the M30B35 is the engine for the E28 535i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E28 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.
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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
What should I replace when I fit a used M30B35 engine?
A used engine lasts longest when it starts life in your car with fresh fluids and new seals. 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. Check the spark plugs and the ignition coils, and make sure the fuel lines are clean and tight before you crank the engine. Change the drive belt, the thermostat and the water pump seals if they look tired, because they are cheap while the engine is out.
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.
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Will the M30B35 engine fit my BMW E24 635CSi?
Yes, if your BMW E24 635CSi was built with the M30B35. BMW used this 3.5 liter (3,430 cc) petrol engine with 155 kW (211 HP) in the E24 635CSi from about 1982 to 1993.
In our records the M30B35 is the engine for the E24 635CSi, 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.
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How do I know a used M30B35 engine is in good shape?
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. 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 M30B35, 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.
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What is the difference between the M30B35 and other M30 engines?
The M30B35 makes 155 kW (211 HP) and 305 Nm. The other M30 engines are: M30B34 with 160 kW (218 HP) and 310 Nm (1985 to 1988).
Engines in one family share a basic block, but the turbo, the injection, the sensors and the engine computer can differ. A higher power version often has different pistons, a bigger turbo or a different fuel system.
This is why we ask for the exact code. Fitting a different version can work, but the wiring, the software and sometimes the gearbox must be changed to match.
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.
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Will the M30B35 engine fit my BMW E34 535i?
Yes, if your BMW E34 535i was built with the M30B35. BMW used this 3.5 liter (3,430 cc) petrol engine with 155 kW (211 HP) in the E34 535i from about 1982 to 1993.
In our records the M30B35 is the engine for the E34 535i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E34 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.
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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.
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What comes with a used M30B35 engine?
Each M30B35 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.
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How much does a used BMW M30B35 engine cost?
A used BMW M30B35 engine in our yard usually costs between 1.800 € and 2.950 €. 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.
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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.
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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.
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How much is a replacement M30B35 engine for a BMW E34 535i?
A used M30B35 for the BMW E34 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.
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What is the BMW M30B35 engine?
The BMW M30B35 is a 3.5 liter (3,430 cc) petrol engine from the M30 family. It has an inline 6, SOHC, 12 valve layout with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and makes 155 kW (211 HP) with 305 Nm of torque. BMW built it from 1982 to 1993 and it meets the Euro 1 emission standard.
You find the M30B35 in the BMW E28 535i, BMW E34 535i, BMW E24 635CSi, BMW E23 735i and BMW E32 735i. What we list: BMW M30 big-six petrol engines for E28, E24, E23 and E34.
At Autowerke Engines every M30B35 is a real used engine from our yard in Hamburg. Each engine in the yard is inspected in Hamburg. The code is matched to the listing, the parts on the engine are recorded, the openings are sealed and the real unit is photographed. Each listing shows the year, the mileage and the price, so you can compare units side by side.
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 is a replacement M30B35 engine for a BMW E24 635CSi?
A used M30B35 for the BMW E24 635CSi 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
Is the BMW M30B35 a diesel or petrol engine?
The M30B35 is a petrol engine. It is a 3.5 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.
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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.
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Delivery, warranty and payment
Before an M30B35 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.
Delivery is door to door and included in the price. Most European addresses receive the engine within five to ten working days; Germany and its neighbours are usually faster.
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.
