Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Reputation:
Known for sporty handling, refined engines, and premium build quality.
Competitors 1994:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES 300 (XV10), Infiniti J30
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, independent suspension contributing to superior handling.
Powertrain Reputation:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engines, a hallmark of BMW.
Build Quality:
High-quality interior materials and solid construction characteristic of German engineering.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission, clutch system, driveshaft, differential, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS)
Electrical:
Engine control unit (ECU), lighting, instrumentation, infotainment, power accessories, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body and frame, exterior trim, interior trim, climate control system, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes
Repair:
Component replacement, system overhauls, diagnostic procedures, specific repair instructions
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, fault code interpretation, common problem diagnosis and resolution
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major overhaul and diagnostics
Type:
Getrag 260/5 5-Speed Manual
Type:
ZF 4HP-22 EH 4-Speed Automatic
Manual Ratios Approx:
1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.50, 3rd: 1.68, 4th: 1.21, 5th: 1.00, Reverse: 3.55
Automatic Features:
Electronic control with selectable modes (e.g., Sport/Economy on some later E36 variants)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW Manual Gearbox Oil (e.g., Shell TF 0803 or equivalent - consult specific manual for PN)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF Dexron-III (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1)
Length:
Approx. 174.5 inches (4432 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.3 inches (1709 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.0 inches (1397 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.1 inches (2695 mm)
Curb Weight Approx Manual:
3100 - 3200 lbs (1406 - 1451 kg)
Curb Weight Approx Automatic:
3150 - 3250 lbs (1429 - 1474 kg)
NHTSA Impact Analysis:
Specific 1994 ratings vary; E36 platform generally performed well for its era but pre-dates modern stringent testing protocols.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available as an option (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard; Passenger airbag optional or standard on later models/trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (BMW Condition Based Service, or fixed intervals in manual).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (recommended for BMW coolant).
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles for long-life plugs (e.g., Bosch Platinum Plus) or as per manual if standard plugs are used.
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or equivalent synthetic oil, typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, depending on climate. Consult manual for precise spec.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or compatible ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump impeller material degradation. Often addressed by replacing with metal-impeller water pumps and metal tanks.
Rear Suspension:
Subframe mounting points can crack or tear from the chassis due to stress. Bushings wear out, leading to clunks and poor handling.
Heater Core:
Heater core leaks are common, leading to coolant smell inside the cabin and fogged windows.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gasket leaks are common with age and mileage.
Vanos Seals:
Degradation of the VANOS piston seals can lead to rough idle, hesitation, and loss of low-end power (specifically for M50TU engines).
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
E36 Introduction:
The E36 generation replaced the E30 3 Series and was produced from 1990 to 2000. The 325i was a core model in this lineup.
1994 Updates:
For 1994, the M50 engine was updated to include VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on the intake camshaft, improving low-end torque and efficiency.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also South Africa and some assembly in North America.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E36 3 Series (including the 325i) was a frequent entrant on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run, recognized for its driving dynamics.
Consumer Reports Evaluation:
Historically praised for performance and handling, but noted for higher maintenance costs and potential reliability issues compared to some Japanese competitors.