Click on image to view the full photo gallery
BMW 3 Series Coupe (E36) 323i (170 Hp) Automatic
Overall Rating
BMW 3 Series:
The BMW 3 series is a line of compact executive cars manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. It is the successor to the 02 series and has been produced in seven generations.
The first generation of the 3 Series was only available as a 2-door saloon; the model range expanded to include a 4-door saloon, 2-door convertible, 2-door coupé, 5-door estate, 5-door liftback and 3-door hatchback body styles. Since 2013, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed as the 4 Series; these styles no longer being included in the 3 Series....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Coupe (E36) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Coupe (E36)). With 245 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1375 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8 s). The top speed reaches 227 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
323i (170 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Smooth and capable inline-six, providing strong mid-range torque. The automatic transmission makes for relaxed, comfortable cruising.
Fuel Economy
Reasonable fuel consumption for a 2.5L six-cylinder automatic, suitable for daily driving without excessive thirst.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Engaging driving dynamics and balanced chassis
- • Smooth and powerful inline-six engine options
- • Timeless and attractive coupe design
- • Strong aftermarket support and enthusiast community
- • Becoming a desirable modern classic
Cons:
- • Age-related maintenance and potential rust issues
- • Common cooling system vulnerabilities (water pump, thermostat housing)
- • Interior materials can show wear and tear over time
- • Some engines can be thirsty, especially the larger six-cylinders when driven hard
- • Safety features are basic by modern standards (no Euro NCAP rating)
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Sedan (E36): 1994 - 1999).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Coupe (E36) |
| Modification (Engine): | 323i (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | 1995 |
| End of production: | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 170 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 68.2 Hp/l [81mm more] |
| Torque: | 245 Nm @ 3950 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M52B25 More details about the engine M52B25 |
| Engine displacement: | 2494 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6.5 l |
| Coolant: | 10.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 75 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 12.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 8.3 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 227 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178.2 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7.6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1375 |
| Max. weight: | 1760 |
| Max load: | 385 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 405 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 62 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4433 mm mm [81mm more] |
| Width: | 1710 mm mm [133mm less] |
| Height: | 1366 mm mm [202mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2700 mm mm [821mm less] |
| Front track: | 1408 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1421 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 110 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Would you recommend the BMW 3 Series ? Tell us why or why not!