M62 engines in e39s and e38s trash?

[SentinelFPS]

I almost bought my bosses 2001 e38. It’s really clean and almost everything is replaced with aftermarket or OEM, but a lot of people tell me they have issues. Engine issues constantly. I said okay and was looking at the E39s. Checked one out today and it had 4 leaks in the engine (M62) and one in differential, and a bunch of other hidden issues.

So my guess that since one is 7 and the other 5 series, maybe it’s the engine? They both contained the M62. Are BMW V8s just not reliable? Should I look into an E39 530i? I just really liked the power or V8 but it was trashed. What do you guys think?

[1999 540i m]

They are not trash! They're just neglected, and usually have incompetent mechanics, Gaskets, timing guides, and some other things, are normal

Yes I am biased I own (2) m62b44, (1) m62b45, and (3) m62b46

[SentinelFPS]

Hmm okay. Well I really enjoyed the power of the M62. Just not sure if the downgrade to an inline 6 would be worth it. Lots of loss of power.

[jclausen]

The 6 is just less complicated, would I like some power of course, but my little 6 cruises just fine

[SentinelFPS]

Yes I understand. I’m looking to eventually add a turbo so just wondering if that engine would be ok

[pbonsalb]

The older iron block single vanos M52, S50 and S52 turbocharges well. 500 rwhp on a stock block with thicker head gasket to drop compression.

[BigC986]

They're a few people on here with turbo'd m54's. The aluminum block is what makes people hesitant about turbo'ing them. The ESS kits aren't a bad route in my opinion depending on your goals. Could definitely make around 400+hp with a built motor an the twinscrew kit.

http://esstuning.com/m54b30-twin-screw-stage-2-ts2/