Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures)
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Type:
Digital (PDF)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text (depending on scan quality)
Printability:
Printable pages
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original documentation
Binding Type
Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
Engine Code:
M52B28
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 90.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Performance
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Fuel System
Induction:
Bosch Motronic M5.2 Engine Management System with Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Lubrication
Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic
Cooling System
Coolant Capacity:
9.0 Liters (9.5 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (G48)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5 or ZF S5D 310Z)
Optional
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH)
Features
Manual Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, single-plate dry clutch
Automatic Shift Modes:
Sport (S) and Economy (E) modes
Fluid Specs
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 7100)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or ZF Lifeguardfluid 5
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4,433 mm (174.5 in)
Width:
1,711 mm (67.4 in)
Height:
1,393 mm (54.8 in)
Wheelbase:
2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
1,420 kg (3,130 lbs)
Curb Weight Automatic:
1,450 kg (3,197 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
1,900 kg (4,189 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended/Specified by Manufacturer
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Likely 4-star (based on contemporary E36 testing)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Likely 4-star (based on contemporary E36 testing)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (SRS)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage, crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette player with optional CD changer. Basic speaker system.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC)
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory
Usb:
Not available from factory
Lighting
Headlights:
Halogen Projector Headlights
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil)
Engine Air Filter:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (use premium long-life plugs like NGK BKR6EK or equivalent)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Synthetic
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW P/N 81 22 9 407 455
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks are prone to cracking; water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (bushings), ball joints, and tie rod ends wear out, leading to steering wander.
'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasis on performance, engineering, and luxury.
Model Evolution
E36 Introduction:
The E36 generation was introduced in 1990 as a successor to the E30. The 328i model replaced the 325i in North America for the 1996 model year, but the M52 engine was introduced in Europe earlier.
E36 Body Styles:
Available as Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Hatchback (318ti Compact), and Touring (Wagon).
Production
Production Period E36:
1990-2000
E36 Assembly Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), Austria, South Africa, Mexico, USA (Spartanburg)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
E36 3 Series models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally rated well for performance and handling, with common criticisms around reliability of certain electrical components and cooling system.
Certifications
Manufacturer Certification:
Built to BMW's rigorous internal quality and safety standards.