Segment:
High-performance compact executive car
Era:
Iconic performance car of the mid-to-late 1990s
Key Rivals:
Porsche 911 (993), Chevrolet Corvette (C5), Nissan Skyline GT-R (R33), Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG
Performance Focus:
Engineered for track-day capability and spirited driving
Handling Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced chassis, precise steering, and independent suspension
Engine Heritage:
Utilizes a modified version of BMW's acclaimed inline-six engine
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed rebuild, diagnostics, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, emissions
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter, alternator, sensor diagnostics (DME), wiring diagrams
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism, fluid specifications, repair procedures
Transmission Automatic:
If applicable to specific 1997 M3 variants (less common), overhaul, diagnostics, fluid
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, subframes, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
ABS system, brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, bleeding procedures, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting, interior electronics, fuse box diagrams, relay locations
Bodywork:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, bumpers, trim, rust repair guidance
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling (cautionary)
Interior:
Seating systems, dashboard, center console, interior trim panel removal
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, symptom-based repair guidance
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components
Overhaul Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all major systems
Torque Specifications:
Crucial torque values for critical fasteners and engine components
Depth:
Professional Level: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical system tracing.
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated inline-6 cylinder
Displacement:
2990 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
86 mm x 85.8 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (variable valve timing)
Horsepower:
240 hp @ 6000 rpm (US-spec S50B30US)
Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm (US-spec S50B30US)
Injection Type:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (API SJ or BMW LL-98)
Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 265/6 or ZF S5-31)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (Steptronic available on some E36 models, less common on M3)
Limited Slip Differential:
Standard 25% M Sport Differential
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-4 or GL-5, e.g., BMW MTF LT-2)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (if applicable)
Body Styles:
Coupe (E36/2), Convertible (E36/3)
Length:
Coupe: 4433 mm (174.5 in)
Width:
Coupe: 1710 mm (67.3 in)
Height:
Coupe: 1336 mm (52.6 in)
Wheelbase:
2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1510 kg (3330 lbs) for Coupe
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not specified in product data, consult official sources
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 400 Liters (14.1 cu ft) for Coupe
NHTSA Rating:
No specific NHTSA ratings readily available for this model year/variant, older rating systems
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) available as an option
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first) using synthetic oil
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP or equivalent)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (BMW High Performance DOT 4)
Vanos System:
Vanos unit can develop wear leading to rough idle, loss of low-end torque, and starting issues. Rebuild kits are available.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pumps can fail. Thermostats can stick.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or tear due to stress from aggressive driving.
Suspension Bushings:
Control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, and sway bar bushings are common wear items leading to sloppy handling and noise.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in the window regulator mechanisms can break, causing windows to fall into the doors.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's storied history of producing driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles, particularly its 'M' division
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation of the 3 Series ran from 1990 to 1999. The M3 variant was introduced in 1992 in Europe and 1995 in North America.
E36 M3 Differences:
The US-spec E36 M3 (S50B30US) had a different engine than the European S50B30 (and later S50B32), featuring a slightly lower power output but a more accessible price point.
Production Period:
1992-1999 (global), 1995-1998 (North America for E36 M3)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Main), South Africa (some)
