M10
The BMW M10 is a 4-cylinder engine, fitted to the 316 until 1987. It was replaced by the M40 as the standard 4-cylinder engine.
Contents
History
he engine was designed by noted engineer and race driver Baron Alex von Falkenhausen. He was asked to design a small-displacement (1.3 L) engine, but felt that this would be insufficient for the company's future needs. Therefore, he designed a block that could be expanded to 2.0 L and delivered it at 1.5 L. The design was very successful, with over 3.5 million produced, and it served the company for over 25 years.
The S14 engine for the M3 was based upon the M10 block. In the M3, the M10 block design is still winning races today.
Versions
| Engine | Displacement | Power | Torque | Redline | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M10B16 | 1.6 L (1766 cc/97 in³) | 89 hp (66 kW) @ 5500 | 103 ft·lbf (140 N·m) @ 4250 | 6200 | 1988 |
| M10B18 | 1.8 L (1776 cc/109 in³) | 105 hp (77 kW) @ 5800 | 107 ft·lbf (145 N·m) @ 4500 | 6200 | 1987 |
M10B16
The M10B16 is a 1.6 L (1766cc) version of the M10 producing 89hp and 103 ft.lb of torque using Pierburg 2BE carburettors.
The M10B16 was also fitted to the E28.
M10B18
The M10B18 is a 1.8 L (1766cc) version of the M10 producing 105hp and 107 lb.ft of torque using K-Jetronic fuel injection.
The M10B18 was also fitted to the E21, and briefly the E28 in 1984.
Characteristics
Engine Bay
Servicing
Main article: Basic M10 Servicing
Every engine needs its fluids and filters changed regularly. The M10 engine will also needs its timing chain replaced after a certain mileage, but more important is the condition of the chain sprocket. If yours is getting rattly, learn more about changing the timing chain.
Common Problems
Won't Rev Over 5000
Unfortunately, this is a common sign of engine wear, and indicates a worn out cam shaft. The problem can be diagnosed in two ways. If the engine sound can be described as "sounding like a skeleton wanking in a dustbin" then your cam is very likely worn.
To confirm, remove the rocker cover and baffle plate so that you have access to the cam shaft, and run your finger nail over the cam lobes. If you can feel scatches, grooves or other imperfections, the cam is in bad condition.
The only solution is to replace.
Common Upgrades
Carburettor Upgrade
The Pierburg 2BE carburettor found in 316 models is not considered a particularly good carburettor. Converting to a Weber carburettor will yield more power and more tuning options. Learn more about Weber carburettors.
