Specifications
Highlights
• Three Owners From New w/Nearly 50 Pages of Invoices
• Comprehensive Mechanical Service in 2023
• Sought-After Color Combination
EAG Impressions
The E36 represented a dramatic leap forward for the 3-Series, with its more aerodynamic design and sophisticated multilink rear suspension. While European customers enjoyed a full range of engine options from frugal four-cylinders to potent inline-sixes, U.S. buyers initially only received six-cylinder models. The disparity was most noticeable with the M3. European M3s boasted a sophisticated 3.0L (later 3.2L) inline-6, while U.S. models made do with a less powerful 3.0L engine derived from the 325i. This difference in specification would remain a point of contention among American BMW enthusiasts for years to come.
Overview
There is no doubt that the E30 M3 is an icon, but it is also undeniable that the follow-up, the E36, was really the car that set the template for what the M3 would become. With its powerful inline-6 engine, comfortable and well-appointed interior, and sublime handling characteristics, the E36 M3 was the perfect one-car solution for the person who loves to drive but still needs to carry around people and things. Although the US-market cars didn’t get the hotter ITB-equipped engine that was offered in Europe, it still offered plenty of punch and is known for being one of the most dependable M-Cars ever built, which is why you frequently see these M3s with 2 and 300,000-mile odometer readings.
This 1996 BMW M3 Coupe was delivered new to Colorado and has been under the care of just three owners from new. Finished in Alpine White III over a black “luxury” leather interior, the car shows 103,829 miles at the time of cataloging and has been kept in remarkable condition. Sitting on a set of M-Contour wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 5s, it is largely stock, save for an upgraded exhaust system that really makes the car sound fantastic. This M3 comes with nearly 50 pages of service invoices from the previous owners, showing just how meticulously this car has been kept.
The black leather “luxury” interior does away with the famed Vader seats, but replaces them with a far more comfortable set of buckets up front. This package also sees wood trim applied on the center console, shift knob, and emergency brake, as well as the passenger air bag cover and door handles. As you would expect for a car that has clearly been well-maintained, the interior is in exceptional shape, and even with the miles, it shows negligible signs of wear.
Powering this E36 M3 is the North America-specific S52, which replaced the S50B30US in 1996 with the changeover from OBD1 to OBD2. Although displacement increased from 3.0 to 3.2 liters, the horsepower stayed at 240, but torque increased by 11 lb-ft to 234. This engine is well known as one of the most durable and dependable engines ever put in an M-car and provides outstanding smooth power delivery throughout the rev range. This engine is paired with a 5-speed Getrag manual gearbox that sends power to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential.
History
With nearly 50 pages of service history, this car has clearly been well-maintained from new. In 2023, the car underwent a comprehensive service at FTP Automotive, which totaled more than $15,000 and included a thorough inspection, replacement of all fluids, new hoses, a new cooling system, new suspension components, and a VANOS service, among other items. This was less than 5,000 miles ago and the car remains in excellent driving condition.
Gallery
Documentation
