1996 BMW M3 (3.2L), Motul X-Cess 5w-40, 8845 miles

[d00df00d]

Oil was in service late winter through early summer. 50/50 city/highway with fairly hard driving, no track days.

Compared to my last oil (Motul 8100 X-Max 5w-30), consumption was up to one quart every ~1100 miles, and fuel economy was down by about 1 mpg on average.

Previous UOAs here: http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1072306

I'm really underwhelmed by this oil. It apparently had no functional advantage over the X-Max 5w-30 in my engine, even though the engine was originally designed for a 40-weight. I think it's time to retire this formula. Rumor has it that there's an X-Max 5w-40 coming down the pipe, so maybe Motul is thinking the same thing.

 

[d00df00d]

Any comments?

 

[RI_RS4]

Welcome to my world with Motul. I suspect that Terry has already mentioned an oil to you, but take a look at my work with the RLI oil in the Audi RS4. It will most likely bring down your Fe wear.

 

[JohnBrowning]

Try Redline 5W40 it usualy is not listed on most sites but they can order it! I am betting you will like it! I got better milage with that then with M1R. I can only geuss it is all the moly in Redlines oil.

 

[JohnBrowning]

You might also consider Synergen Raceing's 0W30LTS it is a good oil and has a nice but not over the top additive package. It is part ester part PAO I think.

 

[d00df00d]

Unfortunately my financial position does not permit me to stray from my supply of Motul oils just yet, so my next oil will be 300V 5w-40. However, I do intend to find a good oil for long drains in this engine. I really appreciate the comments as I am using this stage of switching among different formulations to gather information and make an informed choice later on.

RI_RS4, yes, I have spoken with Terry and followed your testing. Suffice it to say that will play into my decision.

This engine really does seem to like moly. BMW's own 5w-30 is loaded with it. Let's see what happens with the 300V...

 

[RI_RS4]

Originally Posted By: d00df00d
BMW's own 5w-30 is loaded with it. Let's see what happens with the 300V...


Good luck with the 300V. I was not impressed with the 5W40, but the 5w30 might be different.