Positioning:
Performance sedan/coupe positioned as a driver-focused, track-capable homologation special
Competitors:
Porsche 911 (964/993), Chevrolet Corvette (C4/C5), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mazda RX-7 (FD3S)
Performance Focus:
Enhanced aerodynamics, sport-tuned suspension, powerful inline-six engine, driver-oriented cockpit
Distinctiveness:
A more accessible yet highly capable performance car compared to ultra-exotic sports cars, offering daily drivability
Primary Focus:
Workshop Service and Repair
Estimated Pages:
High (typically 1000+ pages for full workshop manuals)
Type:
Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, potentially printable)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, clutch service, driveline components
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS diagnostics and repair, disc/drum components, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson struts, multi-link), steering gear, power steering system
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, starting and charging system, lighting, instruments, comfort features
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, chassis components, exhaust system
HVAC:
Air conditioning and heating system service and repair
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug service, belt replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification and correction
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilding, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs
Diagnostics:
OBD-I diagnostics, sensor testing, module troubleshooting
Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, component identification
Engine Code:
S50B30 (early models), S50B32 (later models)
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated, DOHC, inline-6 cylinder
Displacement Liters:
3.0L (S50B30), 3.2L (S50B32)
Horsepower Hp Early:
240 hp @ 6000 rpm (S50B30 US spec)
Horsepower Hp Late:
321 hp @ 7400 rpm (S50B32 Euro spec)
Torque Lb-Ft Early:
225 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm (S50B30 US spec)
Torque Lb-Ft Late:
258 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (S50B32 Euro spec)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Transmission Type:
Getrag 265 5-speed manual (Euro spec), ZF 5-speed manual (US spec)
Transmission Type:
ZF 4-speed automatic (less common on M3 models)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch
Differential:
Limited-slip differential (LSD) standard on most M3 models
Body Styles:
Coupe (E36 M3), Convertible (E36 M3 Convertible), Sedan (E36 M3 sedan - specific markets)
Length Inches Coupe:
Approx. 174.5 - 175.2 inches
Width Inches:
Approx. 67.3 - 68.2 inches
Height Inches:
Approx. 53.5 - 54.2 inches
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approx. 3200 - 3400 lbs (depending on body style and options)
Crash Test NHTSA:
N/A specific ratings for M3 E36 generation, but standard 3-series chassis had good ratings for its time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional or standard traction control (ASC+T) on later models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (standard on later models)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Head Unit:
Standard BMW radio/cassette with CD changer capability (optional). Later models may have upgraded head units.
Display:
Basic driver information display in instrument cluster, no central infotainment screen in early models.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated mobile phone preparation (early cellular technology).
Oil Change Miles:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or annually, consult manual for specific intervals based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., standard vs. long-life).
Coolant Flush Miles:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-98 approved oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30 (check manual for exact grade and API service category).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid (low viscosity is recommended for BMW systems).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity grade required, consult manual).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF Dexron III or equivalent (if equipped with automatic).
Vanos System:
Variable valve timing (VANOS) system can develop issues with seals, solenoid issues, leading to rough idle or power loss.
Cooling System:
Plastic water pump and thermostat housing can become brittle and crack; radiator hoses can degrade.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or tear from the chassis due to stress, requiring reinforcement.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators are known to fail over time.
Clutch Release Bearing:
Clutch release bearing or slave cylinder can wear out.
Heritage:
BMW's storied history in motorsport and performance engineering, dating back to pre-war era and continuing through the 2002 and E30 M3.
Generation:
E36 M3 represents the second generation of the M3.
Key Changes From E30:
More refined chassis, larger and more powerful engine, increased comfort and luxury features, availability of sedan and convertible body styles.
Production Years:
1992-1998
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich), South Africa (Rosslyn - for some markets)
Awards List:
Car and Driver: 10Best list multiple times, praised for its handling and performance.
Performance Reviews:
Consistently lauded by automotive journalists for its balance of performance, handling, and daily usability.
Homologation Status:
Developed as a homologation special to meet racing regulations, particularly for Group A touring car racing.
