The S38B35 is a 3.5 L petrol inline-6 from BMW's S38 family, built 1988–1992 and rated at 260 hp and 330 Nm. It powered the BMW E34 M5 3.5.
This guide is about the S38B35 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other S38 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our M88 and S38 guide.
- Capacity and layout: 3.5 L, inline-6, naturally aspirated
- Output: 260 hp and 330 Nm
- Production: 1988–1992
- Fitted to: 1 model across 1 chassis generation
- In our stock: 3 units from 6.141,00 €
S38B35 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | S38B35 |
| Family | S38 |
| Capacity | 3.5 L |
| Layout | Inline-6 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 260 hp |
| Torque | 330 Nm |
| Specific output | 74 hp per litre |
| Production | 1988–1992 |
| Models | 1 |
S38B35: 3.5 L, inline-6, petrol, naturally aspirated. Output is 260 hp with 330 Nm of torque, and production ran from 1988 to 1992. That is about 74 hp and 94 Nm per litre, a relaxed tune aimed at torque, durability and economy. Within the S38 family, the S38B36 (315 hp) and S38B38 (340 hp) are more powerful. It was fitted to the BMW E34 M5 3.5.
What the code S38B35 means
- S marks an S-series code, reserved for engines developed by BMW M.
- 38 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 S38B35
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E34 M5 3.5 | third 5 Series | 1988–1996 |
In the E34 third 5 Series (1988–1996), the S38B35 powered the M5 3.5. We have 1 S38B35 unit from E34 donor cars. All E34 engines
S38B35 compared with other S38 versions
| Code | Capacity | Power | Torque | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S38B35 | 3.5 L | 260 hp | 330 Nm | 1988–1992 |
| S38B36 | 3.6 L | 315 hp | 360 Nm | 1992–1995 |
| S38B38 | 3.8 L | 340 hp | 400 Nm | 1992–1996 |
S38B35 or S38B36?
The S38B36 has 55 hp more than the S38B35 (315 against 260 hp), from 3.6 L instead of 3.5 L, and was built 1992–1995. 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.
S38B35 or S38B38?
The S38B38 has 80 hp more than the S38B35 (340 against 260 hp), from 3.8 L instead of 3.5 L, and was built 1992–1996. 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 S38B35 problems
The S38B35 shares its weak points with the rest of the S38 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the M88 and S38 guide.
| Known fault | What to check |
|---|---|
| Valve clearances | Ask for the last clearance check. |
| Timing chain guides | Listen for start-up rattle at the front. |
| Oil pump drive nut | Ask if the oil pump nut has been secured. |
| Throttle bodies and sensors | Check for smooth idle and even cylinder balance. |
Throttle bodies and sensors. ITB linkages, air flow meters and idle valves age and cause uneven running.
S38B35 maintenance
- 10W-60 synthetic is common, about 5.8 litres.
- Oil every 7,500 to 10,000 km; valve clearances every 20,000 km.
- Duplex timing chain with hydraulic tensioner.
Will the S38B35 fit my car?
Will the S38B35 fit my BMW E34 M5 3.5?
Yes, the BMW E34 M5 3.5 left the factory with the S38B35, so an S38B35 from another car is the direct replacement. The third 5 Series was built 1988–1996, and the S38B35 was produced 1988–1992, 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 E34 M5 3.5?
We have 1 S38B35 engine from E34 donor cars, priced from 9.765,00 €. Delivery to your door is included, and the engine carries a 12-month warranty when fitted by a qualified workshop. Add fitting labour and the parts you replace at the same time — seals, cooling parts and mounts — to estimate the total.
S38B35 prices
Our S38B35 stock runs to 3 units, priced from 6.141,00 € to 9.765,00 € with a median of 6.849,00 €.
Prices depend on the exact version, the donor's mileage, how complete the engine is and the demand for that code. Higher-output versions, low mileage and dressed engines with turbo, injectors and ancillaries cost more; long blocks and higher mileage cost less.
S38B35 engines in stock
Here is a selection of S38B35 engines currently on our shelves, photographed in the yard. Click any of them for the full photographs, mileage and specification.
BMW E28 M5 S38B35 Engine 1988 — 6.849,00 €, reduced from 8.000,00 €. It comes from a 1988 donor car, and 7 units are available. We can confirm fitment against your VIN the same day.
BMW S38B35 Engine — 6.141,00 €, reduced from 6.600,00 €. It comes from a recorded donor car, and 7 units are available. Ask the desk for compression figures or extra photographs before you order.
Buying a used S38B35: checklist
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Compression or leak-down figures. Even compression across all cylinders tells you more than mileage. Ask for the figures, not just a pass or fail, and compare the highest and lowest readings: a spread above 10 to 15 percent deserves a question.
- 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 S38B35
What is the difference between the BMW S38 engines?
BMW S38 engines from the E28 M5 and E34 M5. We list 2 versions: S38B38 (3.8 liter (3,795 cc), 250 kW (340 HP), 1991 to 1995); S38B36 (3.6 liter (3,535 cc), 232 kW (315 HP), 1988 to 1992).
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 S38 family was used in chassis E34 and E28. 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.
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 S38 engines made?
BMW built the S38 engines we list from about 1988 to 1995. The S38B38 ran from 1991 to 1995. The S38B36 ran from 1988 to 1992.
They went into chassis E34 and E28. 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.
Will the S38B36 engine fit my BMW E34 M5 3.6?
Yes, if your BMW E34 M5 3.6 was built with the S38B36. BMW used this 3.6 liter (3,535 cc) petrol engine with 232 kW (315 HP) in the E34 M5 3.6 from about 1988 to 1992.
In our records the S38B36 is the engine for the E34 M5 3.6, 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.
See all S38 Engines · Search S38B36 in the shop
How long does delivery of an S38B38 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 S38 Engines · Search S38B38 in the shop
Will the S38B38 engine fit my BMW E34 M5 3.8?
Yes, if your BMW E34 M5 3.8 was built with the S38B38. BMW used this 3.8 liter (3,795 cc) petrol engine with 250 kW (340 HP) in the E34 M5 3.8 from about 1991 to 1995.
In our records the S38B38 is the engine for the E34 M5 3.8, 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.
See all S38 Engines · Search S38B38 in the shop
How much power and torque does the BMW S38B38 have?
From the factory the BMW S38B38 makes 250 kW (340 HP) and 400 Nm of torque. It is a 3.8 liter (3,795 cc) inline 6, DOHC, 24 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 S38B38 on our site lists its year and mileage. If you want more photos or a short video of a unit, ask the desk and we send them before you pay.
See all S38 Engines · Search S38B38 in the shop
What is the BMW S38B38 engine?
The BMW S38B38 is a 3.8 liter (3,795 cc) petrol engine from the S38 family. It has an inline 6, DOHC, 24 valve layout with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and makes 250 kW (340 HP) with 400 Nm of torque. BMW built it from 1991 to 1995 and it meets the Euro 1 emission standard.
You find the S38B38 in the BMW E34 M5 3.8 and BMW E34 M5 Touring. What we list: BMW S38 engines from the E28 M5 and E34 M5.
At Autowerke Engines every S38B38 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 S38 Engines · Search S38B38 in the shop
Is the BMW S38B36 a diesel or petrol engine?
The S38B36 is a petrol engine. It is a 3.6 liter (3,535 cc) inline 6, DOHC, 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 S38 Engines · Search S38B36 in the shop
What should I check on a used BMW S38 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 S38 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.
You can ask for extra photos, a close-up of the code stamp or a short video before you order. 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 S38 Engines · Inspection certificate
Does a used S38B36 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 S38 Engines · Search S38B36 in the shop
Can you check if an S38B38 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 S38B38, we confirm that your car was built with this code or with a version that can take it. BMW used it in the BMW E34 M5 3.8 and BMW E34 M5 Touring.
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 S38 Engines · Search S38B38 in the shop
How much power and torque does the BMW S38B36 have?
From the factory the BMW S38B36 makes 232 kW (315 HP) and 360 Nm of torque. It is a 3.6 liter (3,535 cc) inline 6, DOHC, 24 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 S38B36 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 S38 Engines · Search S38B36 in the shop
Delivery, warranty and payment
Every S38B35 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.
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.
M88 and S38 engine guide · All M88 and S38 engines · Send us your VIN
