E36 M3
| Production | 1992–1999 71,242 built |
|---|---|
| Assembly | Regensburg, Germany Rosslyn, South Africa Toluca, Mexico |
| Body style | 4-door saloon 2-door coupe 2-door convertible |
| Engine | S50B30 3.0 L (1992-1995) S50B32 3.2 L (1995-1999) |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic 5-speed manual 6-speed manual 6 Speed SMG |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 in (2,700 mm) Convertible: 106.7 in (2,710 mm) |
| Length | 174.5 in (4,432 mm) Lightweight: 178.0 in (4,521 mm) |
| Width | 67.3 in (1,709 mm) saloon: 66.9 in (1,699 mm) |
| Height | 52.6 in (1,336 mm) saloon: 53.7 in (1,364 mm) |
| Curb weight | 1,460 kg (3,219 lb) Convertible: 1,560 kg (3,439 lb) |
| Related | BMW 3 Series |
The E36 M3 debuted in February 1992 and was in the dealer's showrooms in November that year; it was the first M3 powered by a straight-6 engine. The engine used is a 2,990 cc (182 cu in) S50, which produces 210 kW (282 hp).
Initially available as a coupé only, BMW introduced M3 convertible/cabriolet and saloon versions in 1994, the absence of any M5 models in the BMW line-up between the end of E34 M5 production in 1995 and the launch of the E39 M5 in 1998 prompting the introduction of the four-door Motorsport model. The E36 is also the first M3 to be built in right-hand drive.
Also in 1994, BMW produced the limited-edition M3 GT as a racing homologation special; all GTs were British Racing Green and featured an upgraded 295 PS (217 kW; 291 hp) 3.0-litre engine. 350 GTs were built.
In September and November, 1995, the M3 coupé and saloon, respectively, were upgraded to a 321 PS (236 kW; 316 hp) 3.2-litre inline-6. At the same time, the cars received clear indicator lenses, new wheels and a 6-speed gearbox. The convertible did not receive these changes until February 1996.
The majority of E36 M3s were produced at the Regensburg factory, however a small number of detuned right hand drive M3s were assembled at BMW's Rosslyn plant in Pretoria, South Africa. In total, 46,525 coupés, 12,114 Cabriolets and 12,603 saloons were produced. Saloon production ended in December 1997; the coupé ceased production in late 1998; and the convertible in December 1999.
The E36 chassis M3 was touted as one of the best handling cars of the 90s in independent tests by Car & Driver. Known for its benign handling and balance, the car is popular amongst circuit racers and track enthusiasts. The E36 was also one of the first cars BMW designed mainly with computer aid with the use of detailed Finite Element Analysis and other software.
Read more about this topic: BMW M3