Comparing the M54 in a 2000 BMW 330i to the B46 you discover in a 2022 330i, you’ll be able to see how totally different these engines are. The M54 within the E46 330i is a non-turbo straight-six, delivering efficiency greater up within the rev vary. It does pull effectively from round 2,000 rpm, but it surely feels robust to extract all it may give.

The M54’s peak torque of 221 lb-ft is delivered at 3,500 rpm, and its peak energy of 231 horsepower at 5,900. It linearly and easily delivers torque, like a crescendo. Because it is a six-cylinder, it by no means sounds tough and vibrates little.

By distinction, the B46 in the G20 330i delivers its efficiency fairly otherwise. Being a 2-liter force-fed four-cylinder, it wants increase to essentially propel the automobile, however when it’s on increase, its superior torque makes it really feel muscular and easy. It delivers 295 lb-ft of torque, however in contrast to within the M54, the place it peaked at a set rpm, within the B46, it’s delivered between 1,600 and 4,000 rpm.

Its peak energy can also be delivered over 4,500 and 6,500 rpm. This means there’s solely a small 500 rpm hole between most torque and most energy so that it’ll pull strongly at any rpm. It’s not fairly as easy because the M54, and it’s possible you’ll sometimes really feel some turbo lag, however total, it offers extra usable on a regular basis efficiency and gasoline payments.