The BMW M3 E36 made its debut in November of 1992, replacing the legendary E30 M3. This would be the first M3 powered by a six-cylinder engine and the first available in right had drive for the British and Japanese markets. Initially the BMW M3 E36 would only be available as a coupe but in 1994, the convertible and sedan versions would become available. The BMW M3 E36 was built from 1992 to 1999 with a total of 71,242 cars were built.
The European version is the best version of the BMW M3 E36. It was equipped with a more powerful engine and in 1996, the car was equipped with a six-speed gearbox that was never available in North America. In Europe The BMW M3 E36 was fitted with the BMW S50B30 engine that produces 286 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. In 1995, the engine received a displacement to 3.2L (S50B32) which produces 321 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque. The 0 to 60 mph acceleration times for the 3.0L is 5.4 seconds and for the 3.2L 5.2 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.
In North America, the BMW M3 E36 was equipped with different slightly watered down engine than it’s European counter part. The BMW S50B30US engine is a DOHC 3.0L 24-valve inline-six engine that produces 240 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. In 1996, displacement was increased to 3.2L (S52B32US) resulting in a torque increase up to 240 lb-ft. The BMW M3 E36 suspension was tuned differently.
The BMW M3 E36 was available as a coupe, convertible and sedan. A total of 18,961 coupes, 6,211 convertibles, and 7,760 sedans were sold in the United States. The North American models have a electronically limited top speed of 137 mph. This was increased to 139 mph in 1995 with the introduction of the 3.2L engine. The BMW M3 E36 0 to 60 mph acceleration times for the 3.0L is 5.6 seconds and for the 3.2L 5.5 seconds. The North American M3s were only available with a five Speed Manual or five-speed automatic.
