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BMW M3 E36 3.0 (240 Hp)
Overall Rating
BMW M3:
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986.
The initial model was available in a coupé body style, with a convertible body style made available soon after. M3 saloons were offered initially during the E36 and E90 generations. Since 2014, the coupé and convertible models have been rebranded as the 4 Series range, making the high-performance variant the M4. Variants of the 3 Series since then have seen the M3 produced as a saloon, until 2020, when the M3 was produced as an estate for the first time, alongside the saloon variant....(Read more on Wikipedia)
E36 Overview:
BMW M3 (E36). With 305 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The BMW M3 E36 generation predates Euro NCAP testing, which began in 1997. While equipped with ABS and airbags for its era, it lacks modern safety features and was not formally rated.
3.0 (240 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The US-spec S50B30US engine offers strong, linear power delivery with excellent throttle response, providing a highly engaging driving experience for its time.
Fuel Economy
Fuel consumption is moderate for a performance car of its era, not a primary selling point but acceptable for spirited driving.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional handling and balanced chassis
- • Iconic naturally aspirated inline-six engine sound and character
- • Timeless, understated design that ages gracefully
- • Strong performance for its era, especially the 3.2L Euro spec
- • Increasing collector value for well-maintained examples
Cons:
- • Can be expensive to maintain, particularly the S50B32 engine
- • Interior plastics and trim can show age and wear
- • Ride can be firm for daily driving, especially with sport suspension
- • Lacks modern safety features and driver aids
- • Rust can be an issue on older examples
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Coupe (E36): 1992 - 1995).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | M3 |
| Generation: | E36 |
| Modification (Engine): | 3.0 (240 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1994 |
| End of production: | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 240 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 80.3 Hp/l [1mm less] |
| Torque: | 305 Nm @ 4250 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | S50B30US More details about the engine S50B30US |
| Engine displacement: | 2990 |
| 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, VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6.5 l |
| Coolant: | 10.75 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 86 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 85.8 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.5:1 |
| Maximum engine speed: | 6500 rpm. |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity: | 62 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4432 mm [1mm less] |
| Width: | 1699 mm [11mm less] |
| Height: | 1364 mm [29mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2710 mm [10mm more] |
| Front track: | 1422 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1438 mm |
| Front overhang: | 747 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 986 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 | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 315x28 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 312x20 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/40 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
If you could change one thing about the BMW M3, what would it be?