More than half a century ago, the BMW M10 engine was introduced. Over the years, technological advancements have been remarkable, making it an iconic engine in the automotive world.
The M10 served as the foundation for many of BMW’s innovations, including the BMW M12 engines used in Formula 1 cars and the S14 engine in the E30 M3.
With its durable construction and lightweight materials, the M10 was way ahead of its time, offering reliability and performance.
BMW M10 Engine: An Overview Of An Iconic Engine
Following World War II, BMW had to rebuild itself, and the launch of the BMW M10 in 1962 marked a turning point for the company. The M10 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four, was a revolutionary step for BMW.
Featuring a mix of cast iron and lightweight materials, the M10 was both durable and efficient. It set the stage for the success of BMW’s future engine developments.
All The Versions
Throughout its production from 1962 to 1988, the M10 engine came in various versions with different power outputs to meet market demands.
The M115 Version
The M115 version of the M10 engine, with a displacement of 1,499 cc, was available in models like the BMW 1500 and 1502.
- BMW 1500 (1962-1964)
The M116 version
The M116, an upgraded version of the M115, offered increased power and performance in models such as the BMW 1600 and 1602.
- BMW 1600 (1964-1966)
The M41 Version
The M41 iteration of the M10 engine featured enhancements like a Solex carburetor and was used in the BMW E21 316.
- First Generation of BMW 3-series The BMW E21 316 (1975-1980)
The M98 version
The M98 variant of the M10 engine was utilized in the BMW E21 315, offering improved performance and power.
- From the same BMW 3-series family The BMW E21 315 (1981-1983)
The M10B18 version
The M10B18, with a displacement of 1766 cc, was a versatile engine used in various BMW models, including the E30 316 and 318i.
- The E30 316 (1982-1987)
The M118 version
The M118 engine, with a displacement of 1,773 cc, was known for its reliability and performance in models like the BMW 1800 and 1800ti.
- BMW 1800 (1963-1968)
The M05 version
The M05 engine, with a displacement of 1,990 cc, offered increased power and torque in models like the BMW 2000CS and 2002.
- BMW 2000CS (1965-1970)
The M15 version
The M15 engine, known for its mechanical fuel injection system, was utilized in models like the BMW 2000tii and 2002tii.
- BMW 2000tii (1970-1973)
The M17 version
The M17 variant of the M10 engine provided enhanced power and performance in models like the BMW 2000.
- BMW 2000 (1966-1972)
The M43/1 version
The M43/1 version of the M10 engine, used in models like the BMW E21 320, offered a good balance of power and efficiency.
- BMW E21 320 (1975-1979)
The M64 version
The M64 variant of the M10 engine, known for its Bosch fuel injection system, was a high-performance option in models like the BMW E21 320i.
- The E21 320i (1975-1978)
The M31 version
The M31 turbo version of the M10 engine, found in the BMW 2002 turbo, showcased the engine’s potential for high power output.
- BMW 2002 turbo (1973-1975)
The M10 Contribution To The History
The M10 engine played a significant role in BMW’s success and reputation in the automotive industry. It paved the way for powerful engines like the S14 and M12.
The S14 engine, used in the E30 M3, and the M12 engine, which powered F1 cars, both had their roots in the M10 engine, showcasing its versatility and performance.
The Legacy Of The M10 Engine
The M10 engine’s legacy is undeniable, having saved BMW from bankruptcy and establishing it as a leader in the automotive world. Its durability and performance have made it a cornerstone in BMW’s history.
FAQ
The power output of the M10 engine ranges from 74 hp to 168 hp, depending on the version.
The M10B18 engine offers a power output of 89 hp to 104 hp, with specific bore and stroke measurements.
Sources: BMW M10 – Wikipedia
Image Source: autowp.ru
