BMW S38B36 3.6L Petrol Engine For Sale

BMW S38B36 3.6L Petrol Engine

High-Performance Replacement Engine for Sale.

BMW S38B36 3.6L Petrol Engine is a legendary 3.6-liter straight-six petrol engine engineered for high-revving performance and durability. Originally developed for BMW’s Motorsport division, this DOHC 24-valve power plant is the heart of the E34 M5, delivering a balance of raw power, smooth delivery, and iconic BMW character. If you’re searching for a premium replacement engine that restores factory-level performance, this S38B36 unit is an excellent choice for enthusiasts and collectors seeking OEM reliability with racing-inspired engineering.

Designed for precision and endurance, the S38B36 features a robust cast-iron block paired with an aluminum cylinder head, individual throttle bodies, a forged crankshaft, and advanced Bosch Motronic engine management for its era. With an output of around 311 hp and 360 Nm of torque, it provides exceptional responsiveness across the rev range. This unit is highly sought after due to its rarity and mechanical craftsmanship, making it ideal for restorations, performance builds, or replacing a tired original engine.

The S38B36 engine is factory-fitted to the 1990–1992 BMW E34 M5 (European models). It may also be used in custom swaps for other rear-wheel-drive BMW platforms, though modifications will be required. For OEM-correct restoration of an E34 M5, this engine remains the most authentic and performance-accurate option.
The BMW S38B36 is a 3.6-liter (3535 cc) inline-six DOHC engine built with a cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and individual throttle bodies for sharp response. With a 93.4 mm bore, 86 mm stroke, and a 10.0:1 compression ratio, it delivers about 311 hp at 6,900 rpm and 360 Nm of torque at 4,750 rpm. Managed by Bosch Motronic fuel injection, moreover this engine is engineered for strong performance, durability, and smooth high-revving power.

Common Weaknesses & Maintenance Notes

Due to its high-performance nature, the S38B36 requires attentive maintenance. Valve adjustments, throttle body synchronization, and regular timing chain inspections are essential for long-term reliability. Aging timing chain guides can become brittle, leading to noise and potential chain slack if not addressed promptly. The engine’s individual throttle bodies also require proper balancing to maintain smooth idle and optimal power delivery. Cooling system components—such as the water pump, radiator, and hoses—should be monitored closely, as overheating can cause head gasket issues. Additionally, vacuum leaks around intake boots and aging sensors may lead to rough running if not serviced.

With the right care, the S38B36 remains a durable, exhilarating performance engine. This unit offers buyers the opportunity to restore true M-car power with a piece of BMW Motorsport heritage.

Each BMW S38B36 3.6L Petrol Engine is inspected, compression-tested, and imported directly to our warehouse, guaranteeing high quality and long-term reliability.