- Responsive and refined six-cylinder engines
- Impressive ride/handling balance
- Accurate steering has great feel
- Cramped rear seats
- M52 engine susceptible to VANOS failure
- M50 engine susceptible to overheating
Overview
Released in December 1993, the BMW E36 3-Series convertible was a two-door, four-seat convertible with a power-operated, soft-top roof. Manufactured in Munich, Germany, the rear-wheel drive E36 3-Series convertible range initially consisted of the 325i, powered by a 2.5-litre inline six cylinder engine mated to either a five-speed manual or automatic transmission. In June 1995, the 325i was replaced by the more powerful 328i. From 1997, the 328i was available in Executive and High-line variants.
Dimensions
Compared to its E30 predecessor, the E36 3-Series convertible was 108 mm longer (at 4433 mm), 65 mm wider (1710 mm), 22 mm lower (1348 mm) and had a 130 mm longer wheelbase (2700 mm).
Suspension
The E36 3-Series convertible had a single-joint spring strut front axle and ‘Z-axle’ multi-link rear suspension.
| Engine | Variant | Years | Trans. | Peak power | Peak torque | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 325i | 2.5-litre petrol I6 (M50 B25) | N/A | 1993-95 | 5sp man., 5sp auto |
141 kW at 5900 rpm | 245 Nm at 4700 rpm |
| 328i | 2.8-litre petrol I6 (M52 B28) | N/A | 1995-96 | 5sp man., 5sp auto |
142 kW at 5300 rpm | 280 Nm at 3950 rpm |
| Executive | 1997-00 | |||||
| High-line | 1997-00 |
Safety equipment
Standard safety equipment for the E36 3-Series Convertible included a driver’s airbag and ABS. From March 1995, a front passenger airbag was fitted as standard and, from 1996, traction control was also fitted as standard. The M3 was further equipped with front side airbags.
Features
Standard features for the 325i and 328i included 15-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker stereo with a radio and cassette player, air conditioning, leather upholstery, cruise control, front fog lights, central locking, power windows, power mirrors and a trip computer. From November 1995, climate control air conditioning was fitted as standard.
With the introduction of the 328i Executive in January 1997, standard features were extended to include a CD player and remote central locking. The High-line variants were further equipped with a ten speaker stereo, contoured seats and woodgrain interior trim.
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