BMW has established itself as a producer of high-performance engines, ranging from the renowned inline-four-cylinder engines, like the 2.3-liter in the E30 M3, to elite V12s in select models. In addition to these petrol engines, BMW has built powerful and dependable diesel engines, notably the M57 series, which was produced for 13 years and offered in various configurations.
This post delves into some of the most powerful diesel auto engines BMW has engineered, highlighting their exceptional performance and robust engineering. For those seeking a potent and durable engine for their BMW, these diesel options are excellent choices.
The M51: BMW’s Early Diesel Engine
Produced from 1991 to 2000, the M51 diesel engine was a groundbreaking inline-six that, while not the most powerful, was advanced for its era. It was pivotal in shaping BMW’s diesel engine lineup, powering models like the 5 Series, 7 Series, and the Land Rover Range Rover 2.5 DSE in the 1990s.
This 2.5-liter engine featured direct fuel injection, a novel technology for the early ’90s, and certain versions included an intercooler, boosting output to 134 horsepower—comparable to the 2007 Isuzu D-Max’s diesel engine with the same displacement.
The M57: A Milestone in Diesel Performance
Replacing the M51 in the late 1990s, the M57 engine signified a major advancement in diesel technology, lauded for its reliability and performance. This engine was utilized in various BMW cars and SUVs, initially in the 2009 BMW 335d. The M57 was available in sizes from 2.5 to 3.0 liters, producing between 148 to 282 horsepower and up to 428 pound-feet of torque in its 3.0-liter twin-turbo version.
The 2009 BMW 335d, equipped with the M57, was known for its swift acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and covering the quarter-mile in the low 14-second range. With modifications such as enhanced software, injectors, and turbochargers, cars with the M57 can exceed 700 horsepower, maintaining their durable stock components.
The M67: BMW’s V8 Diesel Powerhouse
The M67 series introduced BMW’s high-performance V8 diesel engines, produced from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s. Available in versions from 3.9 to 4.4 liters, it powered the 7 Series. The D44, the most powerful M67 variant, produced 329 horsepower and 552 pound-feet of torque.
The 745d, equipped with the M67, could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, despite nearly 4,500 pounds of weight. It had a top speed capped at 155 mph and offered fuel efficiency of 18.4 mpg in the city and 34.6 mpg on the highway.
The M550d: BMW’s Groundbreaking Quad-Turbo Diesel
The M550d xDrive stands out in BMW’s diesel range. Produced from 2017 to 2020, the G30 model featured a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine with four turbochargers, delivering 400 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque. This configuration enabled the M550d to sprint from 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, making it one of the swiftest diesel vehicles.
The four turbochargers eliminated turbo lag, providing consistent power throughout the rev range. The small turbos managed low-end power, while larger ones took over at high speeds, making it one of the most innovative and potent six-cylinder diesels. It maintained strong fuel efficiency, averaging over 45 mpg.
The N74 V12: A Final Diesel Beast
BMW’s V12 diesel engines, although rare, were remarkable, with the N74 as a prominent example. This engine powered select 7 Series and Rolls-Royce models, including the 2022 M760i—BMW’s final V12-powered vehicle before transitioning to electrification.
The N74 diesel featured advancements like double VANOS variable valve timing, direct injection, and twin turbochargers. It generated a substantial 601 horsepower, transmitted through an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive system. The M760i could accelerate from 0-60 mph in a breathtaking 3.6 seconds, matching the performance of many supercars.
