🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M Roadster

Generation:

E36/7

Production Years:

1995-2002

Body Style:

Two-door convertible

Chassis Code:

E36/7

Engine Code Early:

S50B30 (for European market)

Engine Code Late Usdm:

S52B32

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact high-performance roadster, niche segment.

Key Competitors:

Porsche Boxster, Chevrolet Corvette (C5), Mercedes-Benz SLK.

Design Philosophy:

Driver-focused, balanced chassis, powerful inline-six engine, classic roadster proportions.

Unique Selling Points:

BMW's renowned inline-six engine performance, sporty handling, distinct M styling cues, convertible experience.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Engine, drivetrain, chassis, electrical systems, bodywork, interior, technical specifications, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnosis.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (specific count not provided for sound file, but typical service manuals are 1000+ pages)

Manual Type:

Audio/Sound File Sample (Not a comprehensive technical manual)

Language:

N/A (sound file)

Format:

WAV, MP3

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine M50/M52/S50/S52, Drivetrain (5-speed manual transmission), Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), Braking (front vented discs, rear discs), Steering (power-assisted rack and pinion), Electrical System (ECU, sensors, actuators, lighting, comfort systems), Fuel System (injection), Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body & Chassis components, Convertible top mechanism.

Procedures Included:

Engine tuning and diagnostics, transmission repair and clutch replacement, brake system servicing, suspension and steering alignment, electrical component testing and replacement, fuel system maintenance, cooling system flushing, exhaust system repair, convertible top operation and adjustment, body panel repair and alignment.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance, detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, component replacement, and technical specifications for all major vehicle systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

WAV, MP3

Audio Quality:

High quality

Licensing:

Royalty-free

Compatibility:

Mac, Windows, all media

Print Quality:

N/A (digital sound file)

Binding Type:

N/A (digital sound file)

Paper Type:

N/A (digital sound file)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Displacement Euro:

2979 cc (3.0 L)

Displacement Usdm:

3201 cc (3.2 L)

Bore Stroke Euro:

86.4 mm x 85.8 mm

Bore Stroke Usdm:

86.4 mm x 91.0 mm

Compression Ratio Euro:

10.2:1

Compression Ratio Usdm:

10.5:1

Horsepower Euro:

240 hp @ 6400 rpm

Torque Euro:

236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Horsepower Usdm:

240 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Usdm:

236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Engine Control Unit:

Bosch Motronic M5.2 (Euro), M5.2.1 (USDM)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual Getrag 265 (early), Getrag 420G (later)

Optional Transmission:

None

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation

Differential:

Limited-slip differential (optional, often standard on M models)

Gear Ratios 5 Speed Manual:

Typical ratios: 4.23 / 2.50 / 1.67 / 1.24 / 1.00 (final drive 3.15)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

165.7 inches (4209 mm)

Width:

69.2 inches (1758 mm)

Height:

50.5 inches (1283 mm)

Wheelbase:

93.7 inches (2380 mm)

Front Track:

57.4 inches (1458 mm)

Rear Track:

58.3 inches (1481 mm)

Seating Capacity:

2

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 48 cu ft

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 5.1 cu ft

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3000-3200 lbs (1360-1450 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3790 lbs (1720 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Rating:

Not specifically rated, but based on E36 platform with safety enhancements.

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC - standard on later models), Traction Control System (TCS).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), Reinforced A-pillars, roll-over protection system (pop-up hoops), three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners, reinforced side impact protection.

Front Brakes:

Vented discs, 12.4 inches (315 mm) diameter

Rear Brakes:

Solid discs, 11.1 inches (282 mm) diameter

Standard Wheel Size:

17 x 7.5 inches front, 17 x 8.5 inches rear

Standard Tire Size:

225/45R17 front, 245/40R17 rear

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Business CD or Professional RDS radio, optional CD changer, optional navigation system (CCC).

Speaker System:

Typically 6-10 speaker Hi-Fi system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC - optional), Cruise Control.

Connectivity Options:

Optional CD changer, optional cellular phone integration (BMW Assist).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Consult owner's manual for specific vehicle indications.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 60,000 miles (based on iridium spark plugs).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 compliant synthetic oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW ATF LT-2 or MTF LT-2 (for manual transmission). Check specific manual for exact MTF specification.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common Problems:

S52 engine: Vanos unit issues, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket). Cooling system: Plastic expansion tank cracks, water pump failures. Convertible top: Hydraulic leaks, motor failures, fabric wear. Suspension: Bushing wear (control arm, sway bar), ball joint wear. Electrical: Window regulator failures, sensor issues (ABS, MAF), battery drain.

Part Numbers Oil Filter:

Mann-Filter HU 821 x, Mahle OX 164/1

Part Numbers Air Filter:

Mann-Filter C 35182

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Sports Cars:

BMW has a long history of producing engaging driver's cars, from early roadsters to performance sedans.

Predecessors:

BMW Z1, BMW 507 (conceptual heritage).

Successor:

BMW Z4 M Roadster (E85/E86).

Manufacturing Location:

Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA

Total Production Numbers:

Approximately 15,000 units worldwide.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

Frequently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, engine performance, and balanced handling.

Driving Dynamics Rating:

Exceptional, often cited as a benchmark for its class.