← Engines

M70
1987–1994•12 cyl•V12•Al / Al
Successor: M73 →
- Two engine control units (one per 6 cylinders)
- Ultra-smooth operation
- SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
The BMW M70 is the first V12 engine for BMW cars (1987–1994). Aluminium block and head, SOHC per bank, two Bosch Motronic ECUs (one per 6 cylinders). Displacement 5.0 L, 300 hp. Used in E32 750i and E31 850i.
Exceptionally smooth and powerful. Complex electronics with dual ECUs and numerous sensors require expert maintenance. Timing chain and cooling system reliable. Basis for later BMW V12s.