🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

E36 M3

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1998 BMW M3 represented the pinnacle of the E36 generation's performance variant, targeting enthusiasts seeking track-capable performance with luxury and everyday usability. It competed with high-performance sedans and coupes from Mercedes-Benz (C36 AMG) and Audi (S4).

Key Differentiators:

Renowned inline-six engine, balanced chassis dynamics, driver-focused interior, and BMW's reputation for build quality and engineering.

Vehicle Highlights:

High-revving naturally aspirated engine, precise manual transmission, advanced multi-link rear suspension, aerodynamic enhancements, M-specific interior accents.

Suspension Setup:

M-tuned suspension with firmer springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars for enhanced handling and reduced body roll.

📋 Manual Details

Market Availability:

Global (specific regional variations may exist within the E36 platform)

Estimated Pages:

800-1200 (typical for comprehensive E36 M3 service manuals)

Type:

Factory Repair and Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (S50B32/S50B30), Transmission (Getrag 420G manual), Differential, Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System

Chassis And Suspension:

Front Suspension (McPherson strut, control arms), Rear Suspension (Multi-link, trailing arms), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, discs), Wheels and Tires

Electrical And Electronics:

Engine Control Unit (ECU), Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Electrics, Audio System, Climate Control Electronics

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Seats, Interior Trim, Airbag System

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system operation, diagnosis, refrigerant handling (R134a), component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core).

Maintenance:

Routine servicing (oil changes, filter replacements), Inspection points, Fluid level checks and top-offs

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, Transmission rebuild, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper servicing, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Fault code interpretation, Symptom-based diagnostics, Electrical circuit troubleshooting, Mechanical component testing

Bodywork And Trim:

Panel removal and installation, door panel servicing, bumper alignment, interior trim component replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, essential for troubleshooting.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, crucial for engine and chassis work.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, GT1) for engine management and system checks.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text, bookmark navigation

Printability:

Printable pages, suitable for home or professional printing

Binding For Print:

Spiral or Perfect Binding (if printed)

Paper For Print:

Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop use

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Usdm:

S50B30US (3.0L)

Engine Code Eudm:

S50B32 (3.2L)

Horsepower Usdm:

240 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Usdm:

225 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Horsepower Eudm:

321 hp @ 7400 rpm

Torque Eudm:

258 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), multi-point injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Configuration:

Inline-6 cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves

Displacement Usdm:

2990 cc (3.0 Liters)

Displacement Eudm:

3201 cc (3.2 Liters)

Vanos:

Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system on both intake and exhaust camshafts for enhanced power delivery and emissions control.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Usdm:

5-speed Manual Getrag 420G

Transmission Type Eudm:

6-speed Manual Getrag 420G

Automatic Transmission:

Not available for 1998 M3

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch

Final Drive Ratio:

3.15:1 (USDM), 3.23:1 (EUDM)

Limited Slip Differential:

Standard M Variable Lock Differential (M-VLD) for enhanced traction and cornering stability.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Coupe (E36/2), Sedan (E36/4), Convertible (E36/3)

Wheelbase:

107.5 inches (2730 mm)

Length Coupe:

175.4 inches (4455 mm)

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Length Sedan:

177.0 inches (4495 mm)

Wheel Size:

17-inch alloy wheels (standard, Style 23 'M Contour II')

Tire Size Front:

225/45 ZR17

Tire Size Rear:

245/40 ZR17

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120mm

Curb Weight Coupe:

3285 lbs (1490 kg) approx.

Curb Weight Sedan:

3380 lbs (1533 kg) approx.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

While specific NHTSA or IIHS ratings for the 1998 E36 M3 are not readily available, the E36 platform generally performed well for its era in frontal and side impact tests. The manual would detail the airbag system and structural reinforcement.

Traction Control:

ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) available/standard on some models.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Business RDS or BMW Professional RDS CD/Cassette player. Optional Harman Kardon sound system.

Navigation:

Optional BMW Navigation System (older generation, often trunk-mounted CD-ROM based).

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Phone Integration:

Optional BMW телефона cradle and hands-free system for compatible Nokia phones.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).

Major Service Interval:

Major inspections typically recommended at 30,000 mile intervals, covering spark plugs, coolant, brake fluid, and inspection of suspension components.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-98 specification recommended). Capacity: 6.5 liters (approx. 6.9 quarts).

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based). Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: ~9.5 liters (approx. 10 quarts).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid). Replacement recommended every 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-4 or GL-5). Capacity: ~1.5 liters (approx. 1.6 quarts).

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-5, often BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2). Capacity: ~1.2 liters (approx. 1.3 quarts).

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid. Capacity: ~1.5 liters (approx. 1.6 quarts).

Common Faults:

Vibration damper failure (harmonic balancer), VANOS system issues (oil leaks, solenoid failure), cooling system leaks (expansion tank, hoses), subframe cracking (especially on earlier E36 models, less common but possible on M3), window regulator failure, door handle microswitches.

Preventative Maintenance Tips:

Regularly inspect cooling system hoses and water pump. Monitor VANOS for proper operation and oil supply. Address any subframe mounting point concerns proactively.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport Division:

BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) has a long-standing history of developing high-performance versions of BMW production cars for both road and track.

E36 M3 Introduction:

The E36 M3 was introduced in 1992 (Europe) and 1995 (North America), evolving from the E30 M3. The 1998 model year saw the introduction of the larger displacement 3.2L S50B32 engine in European markets, while North America retained the 3.0L S50B30US.

E36 M3 Facelift:

The 1998 model falls within the later E36 facelift period, which included minor cosmetic updates and improved interior ergonomics compared to earlier E36 models.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (various BMW plants)

E36 M3 Production Years:

1992-1999 (Europe), 1995-1999 (North America)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E36 M3 was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, lauded for its performance and handling.

Performance Credentials:

Widely considered one of the best-handling cars of its era, praised by automotive journalists for its balanced chassis and responsive engine.