The S14B20 is a 2.0 L petrol inline-4 from BMW's S14 family, built 1986–1991 and rated at 192 hp and 210 Nm. It powered the BMW E30 320iS and BMW E30 320is.
This guide is about the S14B20 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other S14 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our S14 guide.
- Capacity and layout: 2.0 L, inline-4, naturally aspirated
- Output: 192 hp and 210 Nm
- Production: 1986–1991
- Fitted to: 2 models across 1 chassis generation
- In our stock: ask the desk for the next arrival
S14B20 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | S14B20 |
| Family | S14 |
| Capacity | 2.0 L |
| Layout | Inline-4 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 192 hp |
| Torque | 210 Nm |
| Specific output | 96 hp per litre |
| Production | 1986–1991 |
| Models | 2 |
Built from 1986 to 1991, the S14B20 displaces 2.0 L in an inline-4 layout and is naturally aspirated. It produces 192 hp and 210 Nm on petrol. That is about 96 hp and 105 Nm per litre, a strong figure for a road engine of its era. Within the S14 family, the S14B23 (200 hp) is more powerful. It was fitted to the BMW E30 320iS and BMW E30 320is.
What the code S14B20 means
- S marks an S-series code, reserved for engines developed by BMW M.
- 14 is the family number.
- B stands for petrol (from the German Benzin).
- 20 is the capacity in decilitres, so 2.0 litres.
Which BMW models use the S14B20
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E30 320iS | second 3 Series | 1982–1994 |
| BMW E30 320is | second 3 Series | 1982–1994 |
In the E30 second 3 Series (1982–1994), the S14B20 powered the 320iS and 320is. Engines from other models fit the E30 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E30 engines
S14B20 compared with other S14 versions
| Code | Capacity | Power | Torque | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S14B20 | 2.0 L | 192 hp | 210 Nm | 1986–1991 |
| S14B23 | 2.3 L | 200 hp | 240 Nm | 1986–1991 |
S14B20 or S14B23?
The S14B23 has 8 hp more than the S14B20 (200 against 192 hp), from 2.3 L instead of 2.0 L, and was built 1986–1991. 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 S14B20 problems
The S14B20 shares its weak points with the rest of the S14 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the S14 guide.
| Known fault | What to check |
|---|---|
| Valve clearances | Ask for the last clearance check and a leak-down test. |
| Timing chain and guides | Inspect guides and listen for a cold-start rattle. |
| Throttle body linkage | Check for free play and even opening across the four throttles. |
| Bearing wear on track engines | Look at the oil analysis or open the sump on unknown engines. |
Throttle body linkage. Wear in the ITB linkage causes uneven idle and poor response.
S14B20 maintenance
- 10W-60 or 15W-50 synthetic is typical, about 4.5 litres.
- Oil every 7,500 km; valves checked every 15,000 to 20,000 km.
- Timing chain driving both camshafts.
Will the S14B20 fit my car?
Will the S14B20 fit my BMW E30 320iS?
Yes, the BMW E30 320iS left the factory with the S14B20, so an S14B20 from another car is the direct replacement. The second 3 Series was built 1982–1994, and the S14B20 was produced 1986–1991, 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 E30 320iS?
We do not have an S14B20 on the shelf for the E30 320iS 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 S14B20 fit my BMW E30 320is?
The S14B20 is the original engine for the BMW E30 320is, which makes it the straightforward choice. The second 3 Series was built 1982–1994, and the S14B20 was produced 1986–1991, 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 E30 320is?
We do not have an S14B20 on the shelf for the E30 320is 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.
S14B20 prices
We do not have an S14B20 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 S14B20: checklist
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Bearing and valve clearance history. M engines are built to tighter tolerances. Ask for the last rod bearing replacement and valve clearance check, and consider an oil analysis if the engine can be run.
- 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 S14B20
Which years were BMW S14 engines made?
BMW built the S14 engines we list from about 1986 to 1991. The S14B23 ran from 1986 to 1991.
They went into chassis E30. 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 should I know about the BMW S14 engine?
BMW S14 four-cylinder engines from the E30 M3. We list one version: S14B23 (2.3 liter (2,302 cc), 147 kW (200 HP), 1986 to 1991).
Because there is only one version, the code is easy to match. You still need the engine computer and wiring that suit your car.
The S14 family was used in chassis E30. 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.
Will the SR20DET engine fit my Nissan 200SX S14?
Yes, if your Nissan 200SX S14 was built with the SR20DET. Nissan used this 2.0 liter (1,998 cc) petrol engine with 184 kW (250 HP) in the 200SX S14 from about 1994 to 1998.
Check the engine code on your old block, or send us your VIN. Cars sold in different countries or years can have a different engine under the same name.
Also tell us whether your car has a manual or an automatic gearbox, and two or four-wheel drive. The flywheel, the sump and some brackets can change with these.
A used SR20DET costs about 3.150 € to 4.450 € in our yard, plus 249 € shipping per order. 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 SR20 Engines · Search SR20DET in the shop
What should I check on a used BMW S14 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 S14 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 S14 Engines · Inspection certificate
Can I put an RB26DETT engine in my 240SX S14?
Yes. We sell conversion kits that fit the RB26DETT into the 240SX S14. The kit replaces the RB20, RB25 and KA24, and works with the FS5R30 and Getrag V160.
You can buy the full package with an engine, or only the parts you need: complete conversion with engine, complete conversion, adapter plate, engine mount, wiring and ecu and cooling and exhaust.
A swap like this needs a skilled workshop. Mounts, the adapter, the wiring and the engine computer, the cooling and the exhaust all have to work together. Check your local road rules for engine swaps before you start.
Tell us your 240SX S14's year and current set-up, and we suggest the right parts. 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.
See all RB26 Skyline Conversion Kits · Conversion guide
Will the S14B23 engine fit my BMW E30 M3?
Yes, if your BMW E30 M3 was built with the S14B23. BMW used this 2.3 liter (2,302 cc) petrol engine with 147 kW (200 HP) in the E30 M3 from about 1986 to 1991.
In our records the S14B23 is the engine for the E30 M3, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E30 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 S14 Engines · Search S14B23 in the shop
How long does delivery of an S14B23 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 S14 Engines · Search S14B23 in the shop
Can you check if an S14B23 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 S14B23, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW E30 M3, BMW E30 M3 Evolution and BMW E30 M3 Sport Evolution.
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 S14 Engines · Search S14B23 in the shop
Does a used S14B23 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 S14 Engines · Search S14B23 in the shop
Will the S14B23 engine fit my BMW E30 M3 Evolution?
Yes, if your BMW E30 M3 Evolution was built with the S14B23. BMW used this 2.3 liter (2,302 cc) petrol engine with 147 kW (200 HP) in the E30 M3 Evolution from about 1986 to 1991.
In our records the S14B23 is the engine for the E30 M3 Evolution, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E30 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 S14 Engines · Search S14B23 in the shop
What should I replace when I fit a used S14B23 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. Change the drive belt, the thermostat and the water pump seals if they look tired, because they are cheap while the engine is out. 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 S14 Engines · Search S14B23 in the shop
How much does a used BMW S14B23 engine cost?
A used BMW S14B23 engine in our yard usually costs between 5.850 € and 8.950 €. 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.
See all S14 Engines · Search S14B23 in the shop
Delivery, warranty and payment
Every S14B20 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.
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.
