E36 M3 Buyers Guide: Introduction

Perennially the unloved M3, the E36 is regarded as the weak link in the M3 lineage by enthusiasts, sandwiched between the E30 and E46 high watermarks.

But that’s like being the least talented member of the Beatles, or the least attractive Victoria’s Secret model. The E36 M3 is still a performance car worthy of your time, however, buyers be warned - early E36’s are now thirty years old so there is a lot to consider if one is on your shopping list.

The E36 differed in many ways from its E30 predecessor. The first M3 car to feature the now signature straight six engine, the E36 is a more refined sporting GT with broader appeal than its race-bred predecessor. No constant homologation occurred to reign supreme in the DTM, and the M division was very open about the duality of the E36’s “racing technology in a car design for everyday use”. The E36 took the M3 mainstream.

The motoring media did not take kindly to BMW's change in philosophy, with many journalists pining for the agility and focus of the beloved E30 M3. History would prove BMW was more in touch with its customer base, as the greater refinement of the E36 led to an explosion in sales - the new car significantly outsold its predecessor, with a total of 71,000 E36 M3s rolling down the production line between 1992 and 1999.

Note - we are confident this is one of the most detailed E36 BMW M3 buyers guides available - the article runs to 5,500 words. We appreciate that you may be looking for something more specific, so we have included handy navigation links for your convenience;

1. E36 M3 Technical Highlights

2. M3 Evolution

3. Cosmetic Differences

   
   

What to look for;

1. Engine & VANOS

2. Servicing Requirements

3. Transmission

4. Suspension & Brakes

5. Bodywork & Rust

6. Interior & Electrical Gremlins

   
   

Buying considerations;

1. Potential Modifications

2. What to pay

3. Special Editions

4. Alternative Rivals