As car enthusiasts, we know that the engine is the heart of any vehicle, and BMW’s B58 and S58 engine models have been making waves in the automotive industry.
While these two engine models may seem similar at first glance, a closer inspection reveals a myriad of differences that set them apart.
Before we delve deeper into the intricacies of the B58 and S58, let’s take a moment to understand BMW’s engine models.
As one of the world’s leading car manufacturers, BMW has built a reputation for producing some of the most powerful and efficient engines in the industry.
The company’s engine range includes four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and eight-cylinder engines, each with its own unique specifications and features.
However, the B58 and S58 engine models are among the most popular choices for drivers seeking high performance, reliability, and efficiency.
In this post, we’ll explore the key differences between the B58 and S58 engines, the benefits of understanding these differences, and offer a recommendation on which engine model may be best suited for your driving needs.
So, buckle up and get ready to rev your engines as we take a closer look at the B58 vs S58 debate.
Table of Contents
The B58 Engine
Brief History of The B58 Engine
The B58 engine is a six-cylinder turbocharged engine developed by BMW. It is the successor to the N54 and N55 engines and was first introduced in 2015 in the BMW 340i. You can check out our detailed N55 vs B58 comparison.
The B58 is part of BMW’s modular engine family, which allows for greater flexibility in terms of customization and development. It is known for its high power output, smooth operation, and efficient fuel consumption.
The B58 engine has received several accolades, including being named to the Ward’s 10 Best Engines list for three consecutive years from 2016 to 2018.
In addition, the B58 has been praised for its reliability, with many owners reporting few issues or problems.
Overall, the B58 engine has been a successful addition to BMW’s engine lineup and has proven to be a popular choice among drivers seeking a powerful and efficient engine. Our B58 reliability check explains this further.
Technical Specifications of The B58 Engine
Engine Configuration
The B58 engine is a turbocharged, direct-injection gasoline engine with a displacement of 3.0 liters. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing and lift control.
The engine is also equipped with BMW’s Valvetronic system, which adjusts valve lift to optimize power and efficiency.
Power and Torque Output
The B58 engine is capable of producing up to 382 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 369 lb-ft of torque between 1,800 and 5,000 rpm. This power output is achieved through the use of a twin-scroll turbocharger, which helps to increase airflow and reduce turbo lag.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite its impressive power output, the B58 engine is also relatively fuel efficient. The engine is capable of achieving up to 26 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway and 20 mpg in the city, according to EPA estimates. This is due in part to the use of direct fuel injection, which allows for more precise control of fuel delivery.
In the course of our research, we found that some BMW 340i XDrive owners get about 350km before the reserve light comes on. This is approximately 13.7L/100km. Some others get around 500 – 550km range per tank.
Emissions
The B58 engine is compliant with the latest emissions regulations, including Euro 6d-TEMP and the EPA’s Tier 3 standards.
It features a number of advanced emissions control technologies, including a particulate filter and an NOx storage catalyst, which help to reduce harmful emissions.
In addition, the engine’s Valvetronic system and direct injection technology helps to improve fuel efficiency, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Pros of The B58 Engine
- High power output: The B58 engine is known for its high power output, with some models producing up to 382 horsepower.
- Smooth performance: The inline six-cylinder configuration of the engine provides smooth power delivery and a refined driving experience.
- Efficient: The B58 engine features advanced technologies like direct injection and variable valve timing that improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
- Reliable: BMW has a reputation for building reliable engines, and the B58 is no exception.
- Tuner-friendly: Many owners have reported significant power gains from simple B58 engine tuning such as exhaust upgrades or air intake.
Cons of The B58 Engine
- Expensive: The B58 engine is a high-performance engine, which means it can be expensive to maintain and repair.
- Complexity: The B58 engine is a complex piece of machinery, with many advanced features and technologies that require specialized knowledge and equipment to service.
- Potential for overheating: Some B58 engines have been known to experience overheating issues, particularly when pushed hard in hot weather.
- Turbo lag: Like most turbocharged engines, the B58 engine can experience some turbo lag at low RPMs, which can make it feel sluggish until the turbo spools up.
- Limited space: The B58 engine is a large and complex engine, which means it can be difficult to fit into smaller vehicles or tight engine bays.
Benefits of Owning a B58 Engine
1. High-performance
The B58 engine is known for its high power output and impressive performance capabilities, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts and sports car drivers.
2. Smooth and Refined Driving Experience
The inline six-cylinder configuration of the B58 engine provides smooth power delivery and a refined driving experience, making it an ideal choice for luxury vehicles and high-performance sports cars.
3. Advanced Technologies
The B58 engine features advanced technologies like direct injection and variable valve timing, which improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions while also enhancing performance.
4. Reliability
BMW has a reputation for building reliable engines, and the B58 engine is no exception. Properly maintained, it can provide many years of trouble-free operation.
5. Tuner-friendly
The B58 engine responds well to aftermarket tuning, with many owners reporting significant power gains from simple modifications like an upgraded exhaust or air intake.
6. Brand Reputation
BMW is a respected luxury brand with a long history of building high-quality, high-performance vehicles. Owning a BMW with a B58 engine can provide a sense of prestige and status.
7. Resale Value
BMWs with B58 engines tend to hold their value well, making them a good investment for those who plan to sell their vehicle down the line.
The S58 Engine
Brief History of The S58 Engine
The S58 engine is a high-performance gasoline engine developed by BMW, and it made its debut in the 2020 BMW X3 M and X4 M models.
The development of the S58 engine started in 2014 and was based on the B58 engine, which is used in various BMW models. The S58 was specifically designed for use in high-performance models and was developed by BMW’s M division.
The S58 engine is a 3.0-liter inline-six that features a twin-turbocharger system, an improved cooling system, and other enhancements to increase its power output.
In its most powerful form, the engine produces 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, which is significantly more than the B58 engine’s 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
The S58 engine has been praised for its power and performance, and it has received several awards since its release. The engine won the International Engine of the Year award in the 3.0-liter to 4.0-liter category in 2020 and 2021, and it also won the “Best Performance Engine” award in the 2020 Engine Expo + The Powertrain Technology Show.
However, the S58 engine has also had some issues. In late 2020, BMW issued a recall for certain M3 and M4 models due to potential engine damage caused by a manufacturing defect in the connecting rods. This issue affected only a small number of vehicles, but it did raise concerns about the engine’s reliability.
Despite this setback, the S58 engine remains a powerful and impressive piece of technology, and it is likely to continue to be used in high-performance BMW models in the future.
Technical Specifications of The S58 Engine
Engine Configuration
The S58 engine is a turbocharged, direct-injection gasoline engine with a displacement of 3.0 liters. It features a high-performance design with a forged crankshaft, pistons, and connecting rods. The engine also utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger and BMW’s Valvetronic variable valve lift system to optimize power delivery.
Power and Torque Output
The S58 engine is capable of producing up to 503 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 479 lb-ft of torque between 2,750 and 5,500 rpm. This power output is achieved through the use of high-performance components and advanced engine management software, which helps to optimize airflow and combustion.
Fuel Efficiency
While the S58 engine is focused on delivering high levels of performance, it is also designed to be relatively fuel efficient. The engine is capable of achieving up to 23 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway and 16 mpg in the city, according to EPA estimates.
This is due in part to the use of direct fuel injection and variable valve lift technology, which allows for precise control of fuel delivery and combustion.
Emissions
The S58 engine is compliant with the latest emissions regulations, including Euro 6d-TEMP and the EPA’s Tier 3 standards. It features a number of advanced emissions control technologies, including a particulate filter and an NOx storage catalyst, which help to reduce harmful emissions.
In addition, the engine’s high-performance design and advanced engine management software help to optimize combustion and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Pros of The S58 Engine
- High power output: The S58 engine is designed to produce even more power than the B58 engine, with some models producing up to 503 horsepower.
- Advanced technologies: Like the B58 engine, the S58 engine features advanced technologies like direct injection and variable valve timing that improve performance and efficiency.
- Motorsport heritage: The S58 engine is based on BMW’s successful motorsport engines, giving it a racing pedigree and a reputation for high performance.
- Tuner-friendly: The S58 engine responds well to aftermarket tuning, with many owners reporting significant power gains from simple modifications like an upgraded exhaust or air intake.
- Sound: The S58 engine produces a distinct and satisfying exhaust note, thanks in part to its high-performance design and advanced exhaust system.
Cons of The S58 Engine
- Expensive: The S58 engine is a high-performance engine, which means it can be expensive to maintain and repair.
- Limited availability: The S58 engine is only available in select BMW models, which can limit your options if you’re looking for a vehicle with this engine.
- Complexity: Like the B58 engine, the S58 engine is a complex piece of machinery with many advanced features and technologies that require specialized knowledge and equipment to service.
- Reliability: While BMW has a reputation for building reliable engines, the high-performance design of the S58 engine can make it more prone to issues like overheating and premature wear.
- Fuel efficiency: Due to its high-performance design, the S58 engine may not be as fuel-efficient as some other engines in its class, which can lead to higher operating costs over time.
Benefits of Owning an S58 Engine
1. High Performance
The S58 engine is designed for high-performance applications, and it delivers impressive power and torque output. It can produce up to 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful engines in its class.
2. Efficient
Despite its high performance, the S58 engine is also relatively fuel-efficient, thanks to features like its twin-turbocharger system and improved cooling system. This means that drivers can enjoy the benefits of a high-performance engine without sacrificing fuel economy.
3. Lightweight
The S58 engine is constructed from lightweight materials, which helps to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle. This, in turn, can improve handling and performance, as well as fuel efficiency.
4. Advanced Technology
The S58 engine is equipped with advanced technology, including a high-precision injection system and a variable valve timing system. These features help to improve engine efficiency and performance.
5. Durability
Although there have been some reported issues with the S58 engine, it is generally considered to be a durable and reliable engine. With proper maintenance, it should provide many years of trouble-free operation.
B58 vs S58 Engine – Side-by-Side Comparison
| Features | B58 Engine | S58 Engine |
| Configuration | Turbocharged | Twin-turbocharged |
| Power Output | 335-382 hp | 444-503 hp |
| Torque Output | 369-369 lb-ft | 406-479 lb-ft |
| Redline | 7000 rpm | 7200 rpm |
| Maximum Boost | 20.2 psi | 24.2 psi |
| Fuel Injection | Direct Injection | High Precision Injection |
| Application | BMW 3, 5, 7, X3, X5, X7, Z4 | BMW M3, M4, X3 M, X4 M, X5 M |
Similarities Between B58 Engine and S58 Engine
- Architecture: Both engines have the same basic architecture, with six cylinders arranged in a straight line.
- Cylinder Block: The cylinder block for both engines is made of lightweight aluminum to reduce weight.
- Turbocharging: Both engines feature turbocharger that helps to boost performance.
- Valvetrain: Both engines use BMW’s Valvetronic variable valve lift system and Double VANOS variable camshaft timing.
- Direct Injection: Both engines use high-pressure direct fuel injection for improved efficiency and power.
- Power Output: Both engines are capable of producing high levels of power and torque, with the B58 producing up to 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, while the S58 produces up to 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque in the M3/M4 Competition models.
Which Engine is Better Between B58 and S58?
It’s difficult to say which engine is better between the B58 and S58 because they are designed for different purposes and have different performance characteristics.
The B58 engine is a versatile and reliable engine that is used in a wide range of BMW models, including the 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, and X3.
It is capable of producing up to 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough for most drivers. The B58 is known for its smooth and refined power delivery, as well as its good fuel efficiency.
On the other hand, the S58 engine is a high-performance engine that is used in the BMW M3 and M4 models. It is capable of producing up to 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful six-cylinder engines on the market.
The S58 is designed for driving enthusiasts who demand the highest levels of performance and handling. It features a more aggressive engine tune, larger turbochargers, and other modifications that allow it to deliver incredible acceleration and speed.
Overall, the choice between the B58 and S58 engine comes down to what the driver is looking for in a car.
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient engine that can be used for everyday driving, the B58 is a great choice.
However, if you’re looking for a high-performance engine that can deliver blistering acceleration and speed, the S58 is the way to go.
Read: Camaro RS vs SS
Conclusion
The B58 and S58 engines are both impressive pieces of engineering that offer unique benefits to drivers. The B58 is a versatile and reliable engine that provides smooth power delivery and good fuel efficiency, while the S58 is a high-performance engine that offers incredible acceleration and speed.
When comparing the technical specifications, the S58 outperforms the B58 in terms of horsepower and torque. However, the B58 offers a broader range of use, appearing in a wide range of BMW models. The S58 is exclusive to M models, which could be a limitation for some.
Performance reviews of both engines have been generally positive, with the B58 praised for its smoothness and reliability and the S58 earning accolades for its power and handling. It’s worth noting that the S58 is the more expensive of the two engines.
Taking all of this into account, our final recommendation is that the B58 is the better choice for most drivers. Its versatility, reliability, and efficiency make it an excellent engine for everyday driving, while still providing an enjoyable driving experience.
However, if you are looking for the ultimate high-performance experience and are willing to pay the premium for it, the S58 would be an excellent choice for you.
