BMW E36
BMW E36 is popular in Germany
BMW E36 – The ’90s Ultimate Driving Machine
Overview
The BMW E36 is the third generation of the BMW 3 Series, produced from 1990 to 2000. It succeeded the E30 and was a major step forward in design, comfort, and handling, marking BMW’s shift toward a more modern, aerodynamic style. Offered in sedan, coupe, convertible, compact hatchback, and touring (wagon) body styles, the E36 is beloved for its balanced chassis, smooth inline engines, and precise steering.
History & Production
-
Years Produced: 1990–2000 (depending on market)
-
Body Styles:
-
Sedan (4-door) – introduced 1990
-
Coupe (2-door) – introduced 1992
-
Convertible – introduced 1993
-
Touring (wagon) – introduced 1995
-
Compact hatchback (E36/5) – introduced 1994
-
-
Built in Germany, with some production in South Africa, Mexico, and USA (Spartanburg) for North America.
Engine & Performance Options
The E36 came with a wide range of inline-4 and inline-6 engines, petrol and diesel.
Popular Petrol Engines:
-
316i / 318i – 1.6L or 1.8L I4 (economical, entry-level)
-
318is – 1.9L I4 with sportier tuning
-
320i / 323i / 325i / 328i – 2.0L to 2.8L inline-6 (smooth and powerful)
-
M3 (E36) – 3.0L (286 hp) or later 3.2L (321 hp) straight-six (Europe)
-
U.S. M3 models had 240 hp 3.0L and 3.2L versions
-
Diesel Options (Europe):
-
318tds – 1.7L turbodiesel
-
325td / 325tds – 2.5L turbodiesel
Transmission Options:
-
5-speed manual
-
4-speed automatic (later 5-speed auto on some models)
Performance (M3 E36)
-
3.0L S50B30: 286 hp, 0–100 km/h ~5.5 sec
-
3.2L S50B32: 321 hp, 0–100 km/h ~5.2 sec
-
Top Speed: Electronically limited to 250 km/h
Notable Features
-
Multi-link rear suspension – improved handling over the E30’s semi-trailing arms.
-
Driver-focused cockpit with classic BMW ergonomics.
-
ABS standard on most models.
-
Available with sport packages, M-Technic body kits, and limited-slip differentials.
Legacy & Popularity
-
Known for its near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution.
-
Affordable entry into classic BMW ownership — though rust and neglected maintenance are common issues today.
-
The M3 E36 is now recognized as an underrated performance bargain compared to E30 and E46 prices.
-
Still used in track days, drifting, and touring car racing due to strong aftermarket support.
Comments
Post a Comment