Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Brand Philosophy:
The 'Ultimate Driving Machine' focus on performance, handling, and driver engagement.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi 80/90, Lexus ES, Acura Legend
Performance Handling:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, independent suspension, and responsive steering.
Engine Responsiveness:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine offering excellent torque and refinement.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality with a focus on driver ergonomics and premium materials.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service, Repair, Maintenance, Rebuild, Refurbish, Restoration
Type:
Factory Authorized Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF)
Engine:
Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine management system (DME)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission systems, clutch, driveline
Suspension Steering:
Front and Rear Suspension, Steering system, Wheel alignment
Brakes:
Brake system (hydraulic, ABS), brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power accessories, control modules
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis structure, exhaust system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), system testing procedures
Repair Rebuild:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement
Restoration:
Detailed instructions for returning the vehicle to original specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete overhaul and diagnostics
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Engine Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5300 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic M3.3 (or similar for '92 model year variations)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (Steptronic not available for this year)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch (Manual)
Gear Ratios Manual:
Refer to manual for specific ratios, generally close-ratio for sporty feel
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW recommends specific MTF LT-2 or equivalent (check manual for PN and specs)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (check manual for PN and specs)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not directly rated by modern standards, but known for robust chassis construction.
Idor Side Impact:
Not directly rated by modern standards.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional for early E36 models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pre-tensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory cassette or CD player with AM/FM radio, optional premium sound system (e.g., HiFi).
Navigation:
Optional early generation BMW navigation system (BMW Business Navigation).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Phone Integration:
Optional provisions for early cellular telephones, often requiring specific BMW kits.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12-15,000 km, or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system (if equipped).
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
BMW typically stated 'lifetime' fluid, but recommended replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) by independent specialists.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km).
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 certified synthetic oil, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. (e.g., Castrol Syntec 5W-30)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific BMW PN, e.g., 81 22 9 407 740)
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack, leading to leaks. Water pump impeller can degrade.
Vanos System:
Single VANOS system on M50 engines can develop issues with seals, leading to rough idle and reduced low-end torque. (Manual will detail testing/rebuild).
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack due to chassis flex, requiring reinforcement.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket are common leak points.
HVAC Blower Motor Resistor:
Blower motor resistor can fail, leading to inoperative fan speeds.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles.
E36 Introduction:
The E36 chassis replaced the E30 3 Series in 1990 (for European markets) and 1991 (for North America).
328I Positioning:
The 328i was introduced to slot between the 325i and the higher-performance M3, offering a larger displacement inline-six.
Production Years E36:
1990-2000 (global)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand, USA (Spartanburg)
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The E36 3 Series, including variants like the 325i and 328i, was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run.
Performance Handling Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its superior handling dynamics and driver feedback.
