🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

Z3 Coupé

Variant:

2.8

Body Style:

Coupé

Chassis Code:

E36/8

Production Years Model:

1998-2002

Engine Code Specific:

M52B28TU (for the 2.8 variant)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

The BMW Z3 Coupé was a niche, stylish sports car targeting individuals seeking a unique driving experience and BMW's renowned driving dynamics. It occupied a premium segment below the more hardcore M models.

Key Competitors:

Porsche Boxster, Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, Chevrolet Corvette (C5), possibly some higher-trim Mazda MX-5 Miata models. Its unique hatchback-like styling set it apart.

Styling:

Distinctive, polarizing hatchback-like coupé design, often referred to as the 'Clown Shoe'.

Driving Dynamics:

Rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, direct steering, and a sporty suspension setup.

Engine Emphasis:

Emphasis on inline-six engine smoothness and power delivery.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

This product is a WAV sound file, not a traditional vehicle manual. It contains sound effects relevant to the BMW Z3 Coupé 2.8.

Page Count:

N/A (Digital Audio File)

Manual Type:

Sound Effect Library (Not a Service Manual)

Language:

N/A (Audio File)

Format:

WAV download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

This product does not cover vehicle systems. It is a collection of WAV audio files.

Procedures Included:

This product does not include any repair, maintenance, or operational procedures.

Technical Depth:

This product has no technical depth related to vehicle repair or maintenance.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

WAV

Audio Quality:

High quality

Alternative Format Mentioned:

MP3

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Audio File)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

License Reference:

ars_1422

License Type:

Royalty free

Compatibility:

Mac, Windows, and all media

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 83.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Engine Code:

M52TUB28

Horsepower Bhp:

193 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque Lb-Ft:

206 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Fuel Induction:

Bosch Motronic M5.2 Engine Management System with Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts)

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter

Emissions Standard:

Meets EPA standards for its model year (e.g., LEV - Low Emission Vehicle in some markets).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type Opt:

5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (Optional)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch

Gear Ratios:

1st: 4.23:1, 2nd: 2.52:1, 3rd: 1.78:1, 4th: 1.40:1, 5th: 1.00:1, Reverse: 3.70:1 (Typical, may vary slightly by specific build)

Final Drive Ratio:

3.23:1 (Typical, may vary)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2)

Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 1.5 liters (1.6 US quarts)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent (BMW advises specific ATF fluid for Steptronic)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4026 mm (158.5 inches)

Width:

1737 mm (68.4 inches)

Height:

1373 mm (54.1 inches)

Wheelbase:

2511 mm (98.9 inches)

Front Track:

1447 mm (57.0 inches)

Rear Track:

1474 mm (58.0 inches)

Seating Capacity:

2

Cargo Volume Trunk:

Approximately 200 liters (7.1 cubic feet)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1420 kg (3131 lbs) for manual transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 1720 kg (3792 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Size Standard:

17 x 7.5J (Front), 17 x 8.5J (Rear)

Tire Size Standard Front:

225/45R17

Tire Size Standard Rear:

245/40R17

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Not specifically rated by NHTSA for this niche model; general safety features of the E36 platform apply.

IIHS Ratings:

Not specifically rated by IIHS for this niche model; general safety features of the E36 platform apply.

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) available as an option.

Braking System:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Braking System Specs:

Vented front discs, solid rear discs (typical for 2.8).

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and integrated rollover protection bars behind the seats.

Security:

Engine immobilizer, central locking.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD/Cassette system. Optional Harman Kardon sound system.

Display:

Small LCD screen integrated into the head unit for radio and climate control information.

Navigation:

Optional BMW Business or Professional Navigation system (older generation, typically CD-ROM based).

Traction Control:

ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) available.

Phone Integration:

Optional BMW Mobile Phone preparation with cradle and hands-free system.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC).

Seats:

Sport seats, optional heated seats, power adjustment available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW's 'Condition Based Service' (CBS) system dictates intervals, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Check oil level regularly via dipstick or electronic gauge.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000 miles (using OEM quality plugs).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years, depending on BMW-approved coolant type.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40.

Coolant Type:

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

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4.

Common Issues General:

Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), VANOS solenoid failure, sagging headliner, coolant expansion tank cracks, cooling fan clutch failure (on some models), early ABS/ASC sensor issues, clutch wear (manual transmission), door seal degradation.

Specific To 2.8:

The M52TUB28 is generally robust, but VANOS issues are common. Oil filter housing gasket can also leak.

Recommended Resource:

A dedicated BMW Z3 (E36/8 E36/7) Service Manual or repair manual would provide specific part numbers and detailed procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-focused vehicles with robust engineering and performance-oriented powertrains, particularly inline-six engines.

Predecessors:

Direct successor in spirit to the BMW Z1 and shares significant mechanical components with the BMW Z3 roadster and the E36 3 Series.

Development Basis:

The Z3 Coupé (E36/8) was developed from the Z3 Roadster (E36/7) platform, featuring a unique hatchback-style body designed by BMW's Chris Bangle's team, notably Joji Nagashima.

Manufacturing Location:

Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA.

Production Total Units Coupe:

Approximately 17,814 Z3 Coupés were produced across all variants, with the 2.8 being a significant portion.

Engine Evolution:

The 2.8L M52TUB28 engine was an updated version of the earlier M52B28, featuring a dual-VANOS system for improved torque and emissions.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

While not a frequent award winner in the traditional sense, the Z3 Coupé was praised for its unique styling (by some) and excellent driving dynamics. It gained a cult following over time.

Driving Enthusiast Magazines:

Often cited in driving enthusiast publications for its communicative steering and engaging chassis.

Safety Certifications:

Built to meet global safety standards for its production era.