BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation recommended)
Lubrication
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (e.g., BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Getrag Type D
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A (6-speed manual standard for E36 M3 in most markets)
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate
Transmission Fluid Type:
MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2)
Drivetrain
Differential Type:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) (e.g., 25% lock)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4433 mm (174.5 in)
Width:
1710 mm (67.3 in)
Height:
1345 mm (53.0 in)
Wheelbase:
2700 mm (106.3 in)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Tire Size Front:
225/45 R17
Tire Size Rear:
245/40 R17
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1510 kg (3329 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1930 kg (4255 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Refer to official NHTSA/IIHS archives for specific E36 M3 crash test results; generally considered safe for its era.
Active Features
Braking System:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with ventilated discs
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) available on some models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags (SRS)
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
BMW Business CD or Bavaria C Reverse (optional upgraded sound systems available)
Navigation:
Optional BMW Traffic Pro or similar era navigation systems were available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
N/A (Rear parking sensors not standard on this model).
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional BMW mobile phone preparation kits.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months (using synthetic oil)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum/iridium)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (e.g., BMW Super Dot 4)
Power Steering Fluid:
CHF 11S (Central Hydraulic Fluid) or ATF Dexron III (check specific vehicle VIN)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
VANOS unit issues (rattle on startup, performance degradation), cooling system leaks (plastic expansion tank, water pump), subframe mounting points stress cracks, window regulator failure, HFM sensor issues.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regularly inspect cooling system, check subframe mounting points, ensure VANOS is serviced/rebuilt if necessary.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw M Division:
Founded in 1972 to facilitate BMW's racing activities; M cars are performance-oriented variants of production BMW models.
Model Evolution
E36 Generation:
The E36 M3 represented a significant evolution from the E30 M3, offering a more refined and powerful package, moving towards a grand tourer rather than a pure track car.
Engine Transition:
The S50B32 engine, used in the European M3 (and later in the US M3), was a high-revving masterpiece known for its M-tuned VANOS system and individual throttle bodies.
Production
Production Years:
1992-1999 (E36 M3)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Regensburg)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver:
Consistently ranked on Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run.
Ratings
Sport Compact Car:
Highly praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and engine performance.
Certifications
Iso Certification:
N/A (Vehicle model awards, not manual certifications)
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