Approx. 3197 lbs (1450 kg) for manual transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4299 lbs (1950 kg)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
16.4 gallons (62 Liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not Specifiable for this era, but E36 chassis known for robust structure.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not Specifiable for this era.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (SRS).
Seatbelts:
3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, rear lap/shoulder belts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD/Cassette player with optional amplifier.
Display:
Digital climate control displays, trip computer (on some models).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional BMW cellular phone integration kit (early 1990s technology).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (synthetic oil recommended).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (using NGK BKR6EQUP or equivalent).
Accessory Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically between 40,000-60,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (DOT 4 fluid).
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or CHF 11S (check manual for exact spec, Pentosin CHF 11S often used).
Differential Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-5 rated).
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Concentrated washer fluid or de-ionized water with a small amount of mild soap.
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump failures are common due to plastic impeller degradation.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (bushings are often pressed into the arms, requiring replacement or specialized service), rear shock mounts cracking.
Electrical:
Vanishing pixel displays in the instrument cluster, failing door handle microswitches, headlight switch failures, ABS sensor failures.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failures, fuel filter clogs.
Engine:
Oil filter housing gasket leaks (common on M52 engines), VANOS unit issues leading to rough idle or performance loss.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, sporting sedans and coupes with excellent engineering.
Model Evolution
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation (1990-1999) represented a significant technological and design advancement over its E30 predecessor, introducing more sophisticated suspension and electronics.
328Is Introduction:
The 328is variant, introduced in 1995 (as a 1996 model year in North America), featured the larger 2.8L M52 engine, offering a substantial performance upgrade over the 325is it replaced.
Production
Production Years:
1996-1999 (for 328is coupe in North America)
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journalism:
The E36 3-series platform, including the 328is, was widely praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and build quality, often appearing on 'best of' lists of its era.
Ratings
Car And Driver Best 10:
While specific model year awards may vary, the E36 3-series consistently received accolades, including multiple Car and Driver '10 Best' awards in its early years.