Setting the Standard

One of BMW's greatest achievements is the construction of trend setting straight-six power units.

Compared with other engine designs, the straight-six power unit offers the optimum configuration for a six-cylinder.

The absence of free mass forces and momentum due to the perfect inner balance of this type of engine makes the configuration unbeatable.

The straight-six engine does not require balance shafts and elaborate engine mounts to overcome vibrations inherent in other designs, like the V-6.

No unwanted symptoms have to be eliminated, since the straight-six engine is perfect from the ground up.

With valve drive systems currently becoming more complex, the advantage of having only one cylinder head and only one valve drive system is becoming increasingly important in cost and performance.

Smooth and Powerful

The BMW straight-six is renowned the world over for its smooth operation.

BMW's straight-six power units have outstanding power and torque compared to the size of the engine. Gasoline/Petrol engines built by BMW can generate up to 105 hp from one liter capacity.

The free-revving characteristics of BMW sixes and the very wide useful speed range from 700 – 6500 rpm result from the superior level of output and torque versus engine size.