BMW approved synthetic gear oil (e.g., Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140 or equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Mm:
4433
Width Mm:
1710
Height Mm:
1350
Wheelbase Mm:
2700
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
1460
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
1900
Tires
Front Tire Size:
235/40 ZR17
Rear Tire Size:
235/40 ZR17
Wheels
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
Wheel Offset:
ET41 Front, ET41 Rear (typical)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rating Driver Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific year/model in modern standards.
IIHS Rating:
Not explicitly rated by IIHS for this specific year/model.
Active Features
ABS:
Yes (Bosch ABS III)
Traction Control:
Yes (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and roof structure
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
BMW Business CD or BMW Professional CD, optional amplifier
Climate Control:
Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC)
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Limited by era; typically basic radio connectivity. Aftermarket options available.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), refer to manual for exact conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., original NGK BKR6EK)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or as per manual recommendations
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 (BMW Longlife-98 or API SG/SH)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based with corrosion inhibitors
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (e.g., Pentosin DOT 4 LV or ATE DOT 4)
Known Issues
Rod Bearings:
Potential for wear, especially in higher-mileage or hard-driven examples. Manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack. Water pump and thermostat are also common replacement items.
Vanos System:
Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) solenoids and seals can fail, leading to rough idle and power loss. Manual covers diagnosis and repair.
Rear Main Seal:
Can develop leaks. Replacement requires transmission removal.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Motorsport Division:
Established legacy of performance and racing pedigree
Model Evolution
E30 M3 Legacy:
Successor to the iconic E30 M3, built on the E36 platform
E36 M3 Development:
Developed to offer a more refined and technologically advanced M car compared to its predecessor.
Production
Production Years:
1992-1999 (E36 M3)
1994 Specifics:
Early production year of the E36 M3. Sourced from specific European market specifications (often referred to as Euro spec in enthusiast circles, though this specific manual likely covers the US market variant as well).
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Regensburg)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
BMW M3 (E36 generation) was a Car and Driver 10Best winner multiple times, including potentially for the 1995 model year (representing the first US-market M3).
Ratings
Enthusiast Reputation:
Highly regarded for its driving dynamics, balanced chassis, and potent engine.
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