Segment:
Performance Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Rivals:
Porsche 911 (996), Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, Audi S4 (B5), Chevrolet Camaro Z28
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for sharp handling, powerful engine, and driver engagement
Heritage:
Direct descendant of iconic racing lineage, embodying BMW M performance philosophy
Owner Profile:
Enthusiasts seeking performance, precision engineering, and a capable track-day car.
Engine:
S50B32 (US Spec), S52B32 (Euro Spec / M3 Evolution)
Transmission:
Getrag 6-speed Manual (S6S-420G), ZF 5-speed Automatic (Optional)
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel Drive, Limited-Slip Differential (Standard)
Suspension:
Front: MacPherson Strut, Rear: Multi-link Independent
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Solid Discs, ABS
Electrical:
Complete schematic diagrams, ECU, ignition, lighting, body electronics
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, frame, aerodynamics, interior trim
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, coolant flushes, belt replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault codes
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system service
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic steps for all major systems, wiring diagrams, component testing
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, alignments, fluid capacities
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, exploded views
Engine Code Us:
S50B32 (3.2L)
Engine Code Euro Evo:
S52B32 (3.2L)
Configuration:
Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves
Displacement:
3201 cc (3.2 Liters)
Horsepower Us:
240 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Us:
225 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Horsepower Euro Evo:
321 hp @ 7400 rpm
Torque Euro Evo:
258 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Induction:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 compatible)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic DME
Type:
Getrag 6-speed Manual (S6S-420G)
Type:
ZF 5-speed Automatic (Steptronic)
Clutch:
Hydraulic, Single Dry Plate
Manual Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line D4 ATF)
Automatic Fluid:
BMW LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Length:
4447 mm (175.1 in)
Height:
1344 mm (52.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1510 kg (3330 lbs)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 430 Liters (15.2 cu ft)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Wheel Size Standard:
17x7.5 (Front), 17x8.5 (Rear)
Tire Size Standard:
225/45ZR17 (Front), 245/40ZR17 (Rear)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not rated separately, part of E36 platform assessment
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) Available
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Radio Options:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD
Speaker System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Tel Preparation:
Optional telephone preparation kits were available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 40,000 - 60,000 miles (64,000 - 96,000 km)
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-30, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or equivalent
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 Liters (10 US Quarts)
Vibration Damper:
Cracking or failure of the harmonic balancer/vibration damper is a known issue.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracks can develop in the rear subframe mounting points due to stress.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks and water pumps can become brittle and fail.
Vanos:
The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) unit can develop leaks or rattle due to worn seals/solenoids.
Rod Bearings:
Especially on earlier E36 M3 models with the S50 engine, rod bearing wear is a concern; the S52 is generally more robust.
Head Bolt Torque:
Refer to manual for specific sequence and torque values.
Bmw M Division:
Established in 1972, BMW M GmbH is responsible for BMW's high-performance vehicles.
E36 Generation:
The E36 M3 was the third generation of the M3, produced from 1992-1999 (2000 in South Africa). The 1998 model year represents a refinement of the E36 M3.
Production Years:
1996-1999 (for the US-market 3.2L S50B32, previously 1995-1999 for the 3.0L S50B30US and 1997-1999 for the 3.2L S52B32)
Assembly Plants:
Regensburg, Germany; Rosslyn, South Africa (for some markets)
