BMW LT-2 / LT-3 or equivalent ATF (automatic transmission, consult specific model year for exact type)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Range:
Approx. 106.1 inches (2695 mm)
Length Range:
Approx. 174-180 inches (4420-4570 mm) depending on body style
Width Range:
Approx. 68.5 inches (1740 mm)
Height Range:
Approx. 54-55 inches (1370-1400 mm) depending on body style
Cargo
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 15.1 cu ft (428 L)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3000-3500 lbs (1360-1590 kg) depending on engine and options
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Wheel Offset:
ET35-ET47 (typical for E36 chassis)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Not consistently rated across all years and body styles by NHTSA for this era. Early models had less comprehensive testing.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some early base trims.
Traction Control:
Optional (ASC/ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control / Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models from mid-production onwards. Side airbags were optional on some later models.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Rollover Protection:
Standard for convertible models with automatically deploying roll bars.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional BMW Bavaria C or Professional RDS radio/cassette systems. CD changer integration available. Basic speaker systems were standard.
Display:
Central OBC (On-Board Computer) display for trip information, fuel economy, and system checks. Often suffers from pixel degradation.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Rarely offered or optional on later models.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional cellular phone cradle integration on some higher-spec models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Oil level checks recommended more frequently.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard spark plugs; 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for long-life plugs (e.g., platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For M40/M43 engines: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Critical to adhere to this interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or equivalent synthetic API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3. Viscosity: 0W-30, 5W-30, 5W-40 depending on climate. Consult manual for precise recommendations.
Coolant Spec:
BMW Blue coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
BMW Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid. DO NOT use ATF.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump failures, especially plastic impeller types. Hoses can degrade over time.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings and ball joints are common wear items. Rear subframe mounts can crack or tear due to stress. Shock absorbers and strut mounts.
Electrical:
Window regulator failures. OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation. ABS/ASC sensor failures. Coil pack failures (on some models). Heater control valve leaks.
Engine:
Vanos system (on applicable engines) can cause rattling or rough idling. CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system can clog. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets.
Interior:
Headliner sagging. Seat leather cracking. Door panel card warping/delaminating.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building sporting sedans and coupes known for their driving dynamics and engineering.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
E30 3 Series
Successor:
E46 3 Series
Production
Production Years:
1990-2000 (globally)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Regensburg), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand, Russia