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BMW 3 Series Compact (E36) 323ti (170 Hp)
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)
Compact (E36) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Compact (E36)). With 245 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1255 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.8 s). The top speed reaches 230 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
323ti (170 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The undisputed performance king of the Compact range, offering thrilling acceleration and a fantastic engine note. A true driver's car.
Fuel Economy
Fuel consumption is higher, as expected for a performance-oriented engine, but still reasonable for its power output.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Engaging rear-wheel-drive handling and driving dynamics.
- • Compact size makes it agile and easy to park.
- • Premium interior feel for its class and era.
- • Wide range of engines, from economical diesel to sporty six-cylinder.
- • Affordable entry point into BMW ownership.
Cons:
- • Limited rear passenger space and small boot compared to rivals.
- • Dated safety features by modern standards (2-star Euro NCAP).
- • Some engines can be prone to age-related issues (e.g., cooling system).
- • Interior design is functional but lacks modern amenities.
- • Firm ride can be uncomfortable on rough roads.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Sedan (E36): 1994 - 1999).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Compact (E36) |
| Modification (Engine): | 323ti (170 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1995 |
| End of production: | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Hatchback |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 3 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 170 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 68.2 Hp/l [142mm less] |
| Torque: | 245 Nm @ 3500 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: | 13.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9.3 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 230 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.1 kg/Nm, 195.2 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1255 |
| Max. weight: | 1715 |
| Max load: | 460 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1030 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 300 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 55 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4210 mm mm [142mm less] |
| Width: | 1700 mm mm [143mm less] |
| Height: | 1390 mm mm [178mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2700 mm mm [821mm less] |
| Front track: | 1420 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1425 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 | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R15 W |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the BMW 3 Series!