Distributorless ignition (DIS) with individual coil packs.
Valvetrain:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on intake camshaft (Euro models).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5 or S5D 250G variants)
Optional
Type:
None offered for M3 models in 1994.
Features
Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) standard.
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific gear ratios by transmission code.
Fluid Specifications
Fluid Type:
BMW recommends specific MTF LT-2 or equivalent synthetic manual transmission fluid. Check manual for precise BMW part numbers.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4433 mm (174.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1711 mm (67.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1352 mm (53.2 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 1447 mm (57.0 in)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 1473 mm (58.0 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1460 kg (3219 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate and manual.
Wheels Tires
Wheel Size:
17x7.5 front, 17x8.5 rear (standard)
Tire Size Front:
235/40ZR17
Tire Size Rear:
245/40ZR17
Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
No specific NHTSA ratings available for this model year E36 M3, as testing standards were different.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Teves 20 EL ABS System)
Asc:
Optional (Automatic Stability Control) on some models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional/unavailable depending on market.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis, crumple zones.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard BMW Professional cassette radio with AM/FM tuner. Optional CD changer available.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional dual-zone automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard.
Onboard Computer:
Optional (check control system).
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional BMW car phone preparation.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to Condition Based Service (CBS) if equipped, or manual.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, or 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum/iridium plugs. Check manual for specific type.
Brake Fluid:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Coolant:
BMW recommends coolant flush every 4 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Use BMW-approved coolant.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 synthetic. Consult manual for specific BMW LL-xx approvals (e.g., LL-98, LL-01) or equivalent specifications.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid.
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks prone to cracking, water pump failure (especially plastic impeller).
Vanos:
Early VANOS systems can develop issues with the solenoid seals, leading to rough idle or low-end torque loss (Euro models).
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or separate from the chassis due to stress.
Bushings:
Worn control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, and sway bar bushings are common and affect handling.
Electrical:
Corrosion on ABS sensors, headlight range adjustment issues, window regulator failures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Motorsport Roots:
BMW M GmbH has a long history of developing performance versions of BMW road cars for homologation purposes, translating racing technology to street vehicles.
Model Evolution
E36 Introduction:
The E36 3 Series platform was introduced in 1990. The M3 variant debuted in 1992.
1994 Updates:
The 1994 model year saw the introduction of the M3 to the North American market with specific engine and chassis tuning. Euro models continued with the S50B30 and later S50B32 engines.
Production
Production Period:
1992-1999 (E36 M3)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich and Regensburg), USA (Spartanburg, SC for North American market models).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver:
Consistently named to Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production years.
Motor Trend:
Recognized as a benchmark sports sedan by various automotive publications.