BMW N74 V12 — The Last Twelve-Cylinder

Overview

The N74 is BMW's 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12, used exclusively in the 7 Series and Rolls-Royce models. It's the last V12 BMW will ever make.

Specifications (N74B66):

• Displacement: 6,592 cc
• Power: 585 hp (M760Li)
• Torque: 850 Nm
• Turbochargers: Twin BorgWarner
• 12 cylinders, 48 valves

Engineering

• Based on two N54-derived cylinder banks at 60°
• Each bank has its own turbocharger
• Dual Valvetronic systems
• Dual VANOS systems
• Two DME modules (one per bank)

Why It's the Last V12

• Emissions regulations make V12s increasingly difficult to certify
• Electric motors can provide equivalent torque more efficiently
• BMW confirmed the G70 7 Series is the last to offer a V12
• The final V12 rolled off the production line in 2022

Known Issues

• Everything is doubled — two of every sensor, actuator, and system
• Maintenance costs are extreme
• Turbo oil line leaks
• Coolant system complexity
• Ignition coil failures (12 coils)

Applications

• 2009-2022 BMW 760i/760Li (F01/G11)
• 2012-2018 BMW M760Li (G11)
• Rolls-Royce Ghost, Wraith, Dawn, Phantom (N74 variants)

The N74 V12 is the end of an era — BMW's ultimate expression of cylinder count excess.