Guess it depends whether you like using all the revs.

Top end of the s65 is just another level, real shame it didn't also get a gig in another model. Top end of the s65 is just another level, real shame it didn't also get a gig in another model, I found the s54 could be a bit rough up high in comparison. It just needs the upgraded exhaust to get the benefit of the sound. Agree you can't beat a straight six especially in the guise of the S I agree Jon, had both long term, I was a big fan of the s54 both have similar characteristics but imho the V8 is better in almost every way. As opposed to the S65 that was none of those things and got swiftly replaced by turbos. It was engine of the year umpteen times, an evolution over time, incarnations appeared in multiple M cars, gets the balance of power and thirst about right and is historically notable. Apart from some of the Porsche offerings, I can't think of a better 6 cylinder NA engine. S65 is good but there're so many great V8 road car engines. The S54 is definitely the more characterful engine with a very distinctive sound. BMW S54 Engineīut in the e46 and the Z4M the S54 was just the job. The V8 suited the e92 much better than the straight six would have done, and I'm a huge fan of the e92 M3. It continued the lineage and was the final incarnation of a long line of great M-power straight sixes. No great shock there? The S54 is brilliant. Newer engine is better than older engine. S - Lower weight, the S65 is 33 pounds lighter than the S54 - Higer rev limit due to shorter stroke and oversquare design - Larger displacement and more room to increase displacement - Less stress on the crank, block, and rods - Shorter block - Better engine bay placement - Aluminum dissipates heat better than iron Edited by jon- on Wednesday 19th February Gruber 6, posts months. I much prefer the S65, much more character, sounds nicer, more drivable, revs higher etc.ĭisclaimer, I own an S54 powered M3. I feel like I must be missing something, as people go on about the S54 like it's the best engine ever made, but mine fails to excite me. Simple question, as per the topic really. Search My Stuff What's New 3 12 24 Why the love for the S54? Prev of 3 2 3 Next.

Bmw s54 specs