Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M Roadster (Z3) Year: 2001 Codes Chassis Code: E36/7 Generation Generation: First Generation (E36/7) Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Premium Sports Roadster Target Audience: Enthusiast drivers seeking performance and open-top motoring Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Porsche Boxster, Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, Chevrolet Corvette (earlier generations) Key Features Driving Experience: Renowned for its sharp handling, powerful inline-six engine, and classic roadster proportions Design Philosophy: Emphasizes driver engagement, balanced chassis, and BMW's signature sporty aesthetic Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Owner's Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Secondary Coverage: Basic Maintenance Procedures, Vehicle Systems Overview Page Count Estimated Pages: Approx. 150-200 Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed Booklet Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, ignition Drivetrain: Transmission operation, clutch, differential Chassis: Braking system, steering system, suspension system Electrical: Lighting, instruments, infotainment, power accessories, battery Body And Interior: Doors, windows, seats, climate control, convertible top operation Procedures Included Basic Maintenance: Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement Safety Procedures: Seat belt usage, airbag system explanation, emergency procedures Instrumentation: Understanding warning lights and indicators Troubleshooting: Basic fault identification for common issues Technical Depth Depth: Owner-level understanding and basic maintenance, not for in-depth repair Manual Specifications File Format File Type: N/A (Printed) Print Quality Print Quality: Standard OEM quality Binding Type Binding: Stapled or perfect bound Paper Type Paper Stock: Durable paper stock for longevity Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: S50B32 (US) / S52B32 (ROW) Engine Type: 3.2L Inline 6-Cylinder (S50/S52 DOHC) Performance Horsepower Us: 321 hp @ 7400 rpm (S50B32) Horsepower Row: 240 hp @ 6000 rpm (S52B32) Torque Us: 258 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (S50B32) Torque Row: 236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (S52B32) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended) Engine Management ECU: Bosch Motronic M5.2 / M5.2.1 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 6-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G) Optional Transmission Type: None (Manual only for M Roadster) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF-LT-2 or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-4/GL-5 synthetic gear oil Dimensions Exterior Length: 162.6 inches (4130 mm) Width: 68.2 inches (1732 mm) Height: 51.0 inches (1295 mm) Wheelbase: 93.7 inches (2380 mm) Weights Curb Weight Us: 3175 lbs (1440 kg) Curb Weight Row: 3042 lbs (1380 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 3814 lbs (1730 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: 5.0 cu ft (141 L) Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not explicitly rated, but designed to meet federal standards of the time IIHS Side Impact: Not explicitly rated, but designed to meet federal standards of the time Active Features Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) standard Braking System: Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ventilated front and rear discs Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags Roll Protection: Integrated roll-over protection system behind the seats Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: BMW Business CD radio, optional Harman Kardon sound system Navigation: Optional BMW Professional Navigation system (Mk III) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard Climate Control: Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control Connectivity Bluetooth: Not available on this model year Auxiliary Input: Optional auxiliary input for audio devices Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically around 7,500-10,000 miles or annually Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years Coolant Flush: BMW Longlife coolant; typically every 4 years or 100,000 miles (first change) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) compliant synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 US quarts (6.2 L) with filter change Coolant: BMW Blue Longlife Coolant (G48) mixed 50/50 with distilled water Power Steering Fluid: Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent Brake Fluid: DOT 4 High Performance Known Issues Common Wear Items: Clutch wear, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system issues, differential seal leaks, cooling system components (hoses, water pump) Suspension Components: Ball joints, control arm bushings, shock absorbers Electrical Quirks: Window regulators, convertible top motor/hydraulics (though less common on M Roadster due to manual top in some markets) Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Legacy: BMW's long history of producing driver-focused sports cars and performance vehicles Model Evolution Z3 Lineage: Part of the Z Series roadster lineage, succeeding the Z1 and preceding the Z8 and Z4. M Variant Introduction: The M Roadster variant was introduced to offer a more potent, track-inspired version of the standard Z3. Production Production Period: 1997-2002 Manufacturing Location: Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA Awards & Recognition Recognitions Car And Driver Iten: Car and Driver '10Best' recipient (for Z3 models in previous years) Performance Acclaim: Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and engine performance.