Dual catalytic converters, secondary air injection (specific models), VANOS
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
Getrag 6-speed manual (S5D 310Z)
Optional
Type:
ZF 5-speed manual (S5D 250G) for early E36 M3 models (US-spec)
Features
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios provided in manual for both 6-speed and 5-speed transmissions
Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF-LT-1 or equivalent manual transmission fluid (capacity: ~1.5 liters)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4433 mm (174.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1719 mm (67.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1365 mm (53.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1460-1500 kg (3219-3307 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test General:
Good overall safety for its era, though specific ratings may vary by test organization and region.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Asc:
Optional or standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC) on later models
Dsc:
Optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on later models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Chassis Design:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional premium audio systems, cassette player standard, CD player often optional or added later.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) depending on trim.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Connectivity
Diagnostic Interface:
OBD-II diagnostic port (later models) or BMW's proprietary 16-pin connector for engine diagnostics and fault code retrieval.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, using synthetic oil.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (NGK BKR6EK or equivalent).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid:
Flush and replace every 2 years (DOT 4 recommended).
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect regularly, replace if contaminated or per manual recommendations (e.g., 60,000 miles).
Differential Fluid:
Inspect regularly, replace if contaminated or per manual recommendations (e.g., 60,000 miles), use correct LSD additive if applicable.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 full synthetic engine oil meeting BMW LL-01 or LL-98 specifications. Capacity: 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid.
Known Issues
Crankshaft Bearing பராம:
Rod bearing wear can be an issue on higher-mileage S50/S52 engines, particularly if maintenance was neglected. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Vanos System:
Vanos unit can develop leaks or noise due to worn seals or solenoid issues. Manual provides diagnostic procedures.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump and thermostat housing leaks are common.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or tear due to chassis stress. Manual shows inspection points.
Heater Core:
Heater core leaks can lead to a sweet smell inside the cabin and coolant loss.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gasket leaks are common due to age and material degradation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Motorsport Legacy:
BMW's M division is renowned for its motorsport pedigree, with the M3 serving as a homologation special for racing.
Model Evolution
E36 Generation:
The E36 M3 represented a significant evolution from the E30 M3, offering improved comfort, performance, and technology.
Variant Differences:
Significant differences existed between US-spec (detuned S50B30, 240hp) and Euro-spec (S50B30/S50B32, 286-321hp) E36 M3 models.
Production
Production Years:
1992-1999 (sedan production primarily 1994-1998)
Production Location:
Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver:
Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run.
Motoring Press:
Widely praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and performance.
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