Segment:
Premium Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi 80/90 (B4), Lexus ES 300, Acura Legend
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced handling, rear-wheel-drive bias, and refined ride quality.
Powertrain Performance:
Smooth and potent inline-six engine, offering a blend of performance and refinement.
Build Quality:
Characteristic BMW build quality, with durable materials and precise fitment.
Powertrain:
Engine (M50B25), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain (Transmission, Differential, Driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS)
Electrical:
Engine Management (DME), Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks), Audio System
Body & Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Convertible Top Mechanism (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled service, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, wiring diagrams
Repair:
Component removal and installation, major overhaul procedures, sub-assembly repairs
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder (M50B25)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm
Induction:
Bosch Motronic M3.3 Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch (Manual)
Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) optional
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific manual/automatic gear ratios
Wheelbase:
106.1 inches (2695 mm)
Length:
174.5 inches (4432 mm) - Sedan
Width:
68.5 inches (1740 mm)
Height:
55.0 inches (1397 mm) - Sedan
Track Width Front:
57.1 inches (1450 mm)
Track Width Rear:
57.9 inches (1470 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1540 kg), varies by body style and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 15.1 cu ft (428 L) - Sedan
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
4-star driver, 3-star passenger (for sedans of this era)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction
Audio System:
Factory BMW Business CD or Cassette player, optional Hi-Fi system.
Display:
Digital climate control display, OBC (On-Board Computer) display in instrument cluster.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Parking Sensors:
Not typically equipped with factory parking sensors.
Aux Input:
No standard auxiliary audio input; often requires aftermarket adapter.
OBD Ii:
Pre-OBD-II standard; uses BMW proprietary diagnostic connector (often 20-pin) requiring specialized tools for full system access.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and interval)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as recommended by manual
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or equivalent synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol-based coolant
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 or equivalent manual transmission fluid
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW CHF 11S or equivalent Pentosin hydraulic fluid
Common Failures:
Cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, hoses, expansion tank), VANOS (Variable Nockenwellen Steuerung) system, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), rear subframe mounts, ABS sensor failure, window regulator failure.
Inspection Points:
Coolant system integrity, belt condition, exhaust system for leaks, suspension bushings, brake pad wear, tire condition.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing sporty, driver-focused vehicles with advanced engineering.
E36 Introduction:
The E36 generation replaced the E30 3 Series and introduced significant chassis and powertrain advancements.
E36 Variants:
Offered in Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Touring (wagon), and Compact body styles.
Production Years:
E36 3 Series: 1990-2000 (1991-1999 for North America)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), Austria, USA (Spartanburg, SC for later models)
Car And Driver Ten Best:
E36 3 Series models were frequently named to Car and Driver's 'Ten Best' lists in the mid-1990s.
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated well for performance and handling, with typical criticisms focused on reliability issues related to aging components.
European Safety:
Met all European automotive safety standards for its production period.
