You can’t possibly leave out BMW when it comes to well-crafted engines. BMW engines are made to dominate on every turf possible, and the tracks are right up the automaker’s alley.
The S54 is arguably one of the most remarkable engines that BMW has produced. Read on to find out what makes it great.
Anatomy of the S54
The BMW S54 engine first made its way to the market in the year 2000一housed in the E46, a third-generation M3. The following year, the same engine was fitted into the Z3 M Coupe and Roadster.
About 100,000 S54 units have been produced over the years, making it one of the most produced BMW engines in history.
The S54 was developed with motorsports in mind, making it an ideal engine choice for those looking to dominate the tracks.
Eagle-eyed BMW enthusiasts will notice the S54’s resemblance to the 1992 version of the S50. Both engines featured iron-block construction and an aluminum head with six individual throttle bodies, which was a first for the American market.
The S54 also sported dual overhead camshafts and the automaker’s variable valve timing system technology known as VANOS.
The S54 used a single chain timing configuration that also drove a two-stage oil pump. A scavenge pump also sits in front of the oil pump housing, helping prevent oil starvation and ensuring consistent cooling of the underside pistons.
The S54 bridged the gap between the BMWs of the ‘90s and the 21st century with its innovative engine management software known as the MSS54.
Smart adjustments in terms of ignition timing, fuel injection metering, cooling, and shifting were only some of the capabilities of the new software that helped BMW cement its place in automotive history.
Meet the S54 Family
The S54 didn’t etch its place in history by staying the same throughout its production. Continuous improvements were made to make it a worthy competitor to the likes of the 996 Carrera, Ferrari 360, and C5 Corvette.
S54B32
Generating low-end torque was one of the key objectives of the improved S54. To make this happen, cylinder and valvetrain components had to be refined.
Instead of the original two-piece cylinder, the S54B32 dialed down to a one-piece cylinder head to reduce weight from the engine’s highest point.
Shimmed finger followers replaced the original buckets, which further simplified the valvetrain and reduced its overall weight.
Although still driven by the VANOS system, the S54B32 did have bigger camshafts than its predecessor.
An upgraded software in the form of the Siemens MSS54 DME operated the improved engine along with updated sensors and solenoids.
Also, although the S54B32 still had the same displacement as the S50B32 at 3.2L, its cubic capacity did grow from 3201cc to 3246cc.
S54B32HP
Improvements to the S54B32HP mainly revolved around electronics, thanks to the re-tuned Digital Motor Electronics (DME) technology.
This version of the S54 had larger camshafts than its predecessor as well as modified cam timing. Speed density tune was also based on the MAP sensor instead of the MAF sensor.
For the S54B32HP, a carbon fiber intake plenum was used to change airflow sensor operation, and the stainless steel headers of the exhaust were replaced with a thinner material to reduce weight and improve exhaust flow.
S54-Backed BMW Models
It’s only fitting for an engine as iconic as the S54 to be housed in some of BMW’s most prized models. Here are some BMWs that carried the remarkable engine under their hoods.
BMW M3 E46
Max output: 343-360 hp
The E46 is a third-generation M3. Produced from 2000 to 2006, the E46 boasts an inline six-cylinder engine with a high-speed concept.
Approximately 85,000 M3 E46 units were sold during its production, making it the most successful BMW M high-performance model ever made.
The E46 had a displacement of 3.2 liters and sported the S54B32 engine. The model pioneered BMW’s high-rev concept, allowing the next gear shift at under 8,000 rpm.
The E46 had eight “Engine of the Year” awards under its belt, producing a peak power output of 343 hp and 365 lb-ft. of torque.
BMW M3 CSL
Max output: 360 hp
Manufactured in 2003, the BMW M3 E46 CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight) is recognized as the crown jewel of the third M3 series.
The CSL is a special edition M3 E46 with only 1,383 units produced. It sported the famed S54B32HP engine, which added 17 hp and 5 Nm of torque to the original S54B32.
The CSL also has an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 3.85 kg per hp, thanks to its lightweight composition.
But perhaps one of the most iconic features of the CSL was its carbon airbox, which produced a unique, roaring intake noise that enthusiasts have come to love.
BMW Z3M Roadster
Max output: 321-325 hp
Produced from 1997 to 2002, the BMW Z3M Roadster is undoubtedly one of the most popular open-top sports cars.
A total of 15,322 units of the Z3M Roadster were produced between 1996 and 2002. And although the model isn’t as rare as the Z3 M Coupe, its value remains at an all-time high.
The Z4M eventually succeeded the Z3M Roadster four years after the automaker ceased its production.
BMW S54 Engine Issues
The S54 engine is certainly a thing of beauty, but it still comes with a set of issues.
VANOS components tend to break, including the housing and coil packs. When it comes to replacing these parts, some might think that buying a completely rebuilt VANOS is the more feasible option in terms of cost.
Premature bearing failure is also a recognized issue in some models with the S54, especially E46 M3s that were produced between 2001 and 2003.
The S54 also has other problems you’ll typically find in other vehicles, such as oil leaks and water pump failure.
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