14/11/2025
Worthwhile !!!
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Comparison between the engine used in the BMW 8 Series (G-generation) and the Mercedes‑Benz OM656 engine covering technical specs, characteristics, advantages and trade-offs.
BMW 8 Series Engine
The BMW 8 Series in its recent G-generation uses several petrol and diesel powertrains. For example, the 3.0 litre B58 turbocharged inline-6 petrol produces around 335 hp and 500 Nm of torque in the 840i Gran Coupé version. In the petrol V8 version (like the M850i), a 4.4 litre twin-turbo V8 produces around 523 hp and 750 Nm of torque. The BMW engine family emphasises high revs, strong petrol performance, advanced technology (turbocharging, direct injection, variable valving) and is geared toward dynamic driving. One of its strengths is its versatility—BMW offers multiple engine variants under the 8 Series umbrella, allowing buyers to pick a performance or more relaxed version depending on needs. The trade-offs include generally higher fuel consumption (especially petrol models), higher running costs, and complexity from the turbo systems and performance tuning.
Mercedes-Benz OM656 Engine
The OM656 is a modular 3.0 litre straight-six diesel engine introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 2017. It uses aluminium alloy block and head, twin turbocharging (or twin-scroll turbo plus e-booster in some variants), common-rail direct injection, and a high compression ratio (15.5 : 1) for diesel. Power output varies by version: from approximately 210 kW (286 hp) and 600 Nm torque, up to 250 kW + 15 kW (≈335 hp) and 750 Nm torque in top variants. The OM656’s strengths lie in diesel efficiency, strong low-end torque (which makes the car feel effortless in everyday driving, especially for high-load or long-distance applications), and lower fuel consumption compared to large petrol engines. The trade-offs include less high-revving character (diesels typically have lower rev ceiling), less “sporting” sound/feel compared to high-performance petrol engines, and sometimes higher weight due to turbo systems and the robust construction required for diesel.
Comparative Highlights
In terms of engine character, the BMW 8 Series petrol engines deliver sharper response, higher revs, more performance-feel and are tuned for dynamic driving. The OM656 diesel from Mercedes is tuned for efficiency, low-end torque, smooth cruising and everyday usability rather than outright sporty revving.
Regarding torque delivery, the OM656 diesel has very strong low-rpm torque (600-750 Nm from about 1,200-3,200 rpm) which makes it feel effortless when accelerating from low speeds. The BMW petrol engines may deliver somewhat less torque in those low-rpm ranges (especially the 3.0-litre variant) but compensate with high rev capability and strong horsepower.
For use cases, if you drive often over long distances, carry loads or value fuel economy and smoothness, the OM656 diesel engine is a very compelling choice. If you prioritise driving dynamics, high-performance acceleration, sporting feel and enjoy petrol engine characteristics, the BMW 8 Series engine family will appeal more.
In maintenance and ownership, diesel engines like the OM656 may offer better fuel efficiency and can be robust, but diesel turbo systems and emissions systems (like AdBlue, particulate filters) may add complexity. Petrol high-performance BMW engines may incur higher running costs (fuel, tyres, servicing) but deliver a more thrilling experience.
In market positioning, the BMW 8 Series engines are geared toward premium performance grand tourers, while the OM656 represents Mercedes’s push to modernise diesel straight-six engines with efficiency and luxury refinement.
My verdict: If it were up to me and I had to choose based on a mix of performance and daily usability, I'd lean toward the BMW 8 Series petrol engine for its dynamic character and driving enjoyment. But if I wanted a luxury car with strong torque, excellent mid-range power, long-distance comfort and better fuel economy, I’d choose the Mercedes OM656 diesel engine.