The expected target range for competitive engines was 250 to 300 bhp (190 to 220 kW).

By its introduction at the 1954 French GP the 2,496 cc (152.3 cu in) (76.0×68.8 mm) desmodromic valves straight 8 M 196 R delivered 256 PS (188 kW).

[5] The latest iteration of the 2.5-litre unit eventually had a compression in the range of ε=12.0…12.5, produced up to 290 PS (213 kW) at 8500/min, and delivered a maximum torque of 25.8 kp⋅m (253 N⋅m) at 6450/min, equivalent to a BMEP of 13 kp/cm2 (1.27 MPa).

It has two four-cylinder banks made of silumin with chromium-coated aluminium cylinder sleeves.

Unlike typical car engines, the M 196 S has a crankshaft consisting of two Hirth joint halves with centre torque take-off.