Hexadecimal are a real rarity among powertrains, at least as far as cars are concerned, but if they were mostly engaged in Bugatti, Cadillac and a boutique Italian manufacturer Cizet. Less well known is that they were pretty close to introducing a model with a V16 engine, too at BMW.
The beginning of the story dates back to 1987, when Munich decided to develop a V16-drive unit, which they named codenamed Goldfisch (goldfish). The engine was based on the already established V-shaped twelve-cylinder and had 6,6 liters of working volume, which is identical in volume to the V12 in the models BMW M760i in Rolls-Royce Ghost.
Unlike modern forced-loading machines, it was basically an atmospheric power unit that was capable of a relatively modest working volume and number of cylinders. 300 kilowatts (408 hp), which, however, was much more than he could burst out five-liter V12 M70B50 from the then 7 Series, which was capable of 220 kW (299 hp).
The engine was installed in the model E32 750 iL, which they named internally 767 iL Goldfisch. Due to their length, the engineers had quite a few problems with providing adequate cooling for the powertrain, so they prepared extensive cooling system with bulky air intake slots above the rear pair of wheels and an opening between the taillights.
The engineers presented the idea to the company's management, which did not decide on further development and so on BMW's V16 has not been used in serial production. It seems that after less than three decades, the time for the V12 is running out, which is also indicated by the statement of the first husband. Division M GmbH, Markus Flaschwho said: "I don't believe we'll have a twelve-cylinder model in the sales program in the near future."
