Engine Rebuilds | VAC Motorsports

VAC Engine Building: Precision. Power. Proven.

At VAC Motorsports, engine building isn’t just a service — it’s the heart of our identity. For over 40 years, we’ve earned global respect as the go-to authority for high-performance BMW engines. Our engines power championship-winning race teams, world-record-holding street builds, and passionate weekend warriors alike. When performance matters, professionals and enthusiasts turn to VAC.

Built with Precision, Backed by Reputation Every VAC engine is built in-house at our Philadelphia-based facility using the most advanced machining, blueprinting, and assembly techniques available. We’ve refined our process through decades of racing, dyno testing, and customer feedback — and it shows. From endurance racing to drag strips, time attack to drifting, VAC engines have consistently proven themselves at the highest levels of motorsport.

Customized to Fit Your Goals No two builds are the same. Our team works closely with each customer to understand their goals — from horsepower targets and fuel type, to class restrictions, track demands, and driving style. Whether you’re looking for a reliable daily driver with upgraded internals or a 1,200+ HP turbocharged monster, we build each engine to suit the demands of the vehicle and the driver behind it.

Our comprehensive build process includes:

Detailed consultation and planning
Full inspection and teardown
Precision machining and blueprinting
Balanced rotating assembly
Race-spec head porting and valve work
Professional assembly in our clean room
Dyno break-in and tuning available

Specialization in BMW’s Finest: S54, S65, S85 and Beyond VAC is widely known for our deep expertise in BMW’s most legendary engines — especially the S54, S65, and S85 platforms. From high-revving naturally aspirated builds to fully forged setups designed for boost, our knowledge of these engines is unmatched. We’ve built hundreds of S54s that dominate road courses, S65s that scream to 9,000 RPM, and S85s that hold up to real motorsport abuse.

Looking for reliability at the limit? Our proprietary upgrades and custom components — like VAC rod bearings, head studs, and oil system enhancements — are engineered to solve the known weak points of these engines while extracting maximum performance.

Trusted by Race Teams, Tuners & Performance Shops Worldwide Top-level race teams, tuning shops, and independent builders across the globe rely on VAC-built engines. We provide the quality, consistency, and support they need to compete and win. Our motors have competed in everything from IMSA to Global Time Attack, Formula Drift to standing mile events.

The Choice for High-Horsepower BMW Builds VAC engines are engineered to hold power — real power. We’ve built engines making over 1,200 horsepower reliably. Whether it’s an S58 with closed-deck sleeves and custom forged internals or a twin-turbocharged S85 ready for airstrip assault, we know how to extract performance while keeping reliability in check.

When you’re ready to start your build, complete our VAC Engine Build Request Form to give us an idea of your platform, budget, power goals, and intended use. Our team will guide you every step of the way to deliver an engine that exceeds expectations — on and off the track.

VAC Motorsports — Engineered for the Driven.

What Is the Typical Process for a VAC Engine Build?

Every successful engine program starts with a clear plan. Before any machining or parts selection begins, our team works with you to define the exact operating environment, performance targets, and long-term service expectations for your engine.

To properly engineer your build, we begin by gathering the following:

Fuel type and octane rating
Engine management system (existing or required)
Horsepower and torque goals
Budget range
Vehicle use – street, track, drag, drift, endurance (and frequency)
Expected service interval – refresh schedule for race engines or mileage/years for street engines

We can build your engine from a core you supply, or source a suitable core on request. Whenever possible, we prefer to start with your currently running engine to maintain known history and compatibility.

For our international and out-of-state customers, we can coordinate freight logistics and provide assistance with shipping your engine to and from our facility from virtually anywhere in the world.

Scheduling & Turnaround Time

All engine builds and machine work are scheduled on a first-in, first-out basis. During peak racing season, turnaround times may extend due to increased demand.

If your project is tied to a fixed deadline, please discuss this with us in advance. Expedited build programs may be available for an additional fee.

Payment Structure

Engine build projects are typically paid in full prior to completion. Depending on the scope of the build, we may be able to begin with a 50% deposit.

VAC Engine & Cylinder Head Warranty

VAC Motorsports stands behind the quality of our workmanship. All rebuilt stock-spec engines and cylinder heads include a 30-day Quality Guarantee covering defects in our machining and assembly.

As with all professional motorsport engine programs, any engine or component intended for high-performance, competition, or modified use is classified as a racing component and is sold without warranty, expressed or implied.

This is the global industry standard and allows for the component selection, tolerances, and performance levels required for extreme applications.

For customers seeking maximum durability in high-load environments, our Stage 2 and Stage 3 cylinder head programs and fully built engines featuring Arrow connecting rods and CP pistons are engineered for the highest levels of strength, thermal stability, and long-term reliability.