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BMW 3 Series Convertible (E36) 318i (115 Hp)
Overall Rating
BMW 3 Series:
The BMW 3 series is a line of compact executive cars manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. It is the successor to the 02 series and has been produced in seven generations.
The first generation of the 3 Series was only available as a 2-door saloon; the model range expanded to include a 4-door saloon, 2-door convertible, 2-door coupé, 5-door estate, 5-door liftback and 3-door hatchback body styles. Since 2013, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed as the 4 Series; these styles no longer being included in the 3 Series....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Convertible (E36) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Convertible (E36)). With 168 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.1 l/100km). With a weight of 1370 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 12.5 s). The top speed reaches 194 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.
318i (115 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Modest performance, suitable for relaxed driving but lacks the punch and smoothness of the six-cylinder models.
Fuel Economy
The most economical option in the lineup, offering good fuel efficiency for daily use.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Timeless, elegant convertible design with classic BMW proportions.
- • Smooth and powerful inline-six engines offering excellent performance.
- • Engaging rear-wheel-drive handling and balanced chassis dynamics.
- • Good build quality and interior materials for its era.
- • Strong enthusiast following and growing classic car appeal.
Cons:
- • Convertible top mechanism can be complex and prone to issues with age.
- • Noticeable scuttle shake (body flex) common in convertibles of this era.
- • Rear seat space is limited, making it less practical for four adults.
- • Maintenance costs can be higher for older BMWs, especially for specific components.
- • Lacks modern safety features and driver assistance systems.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Compact (E36): 1993 - 1999).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Convertible (E36) |
| Modification (Engine): | 318i (115 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1994 |
| End of production: | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 4 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 115 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 64 Hp/l [225mm more] |
| Torque: | 168 Nm @ 3900 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M43B18 More details about the engine M43B18 |
| Engine displacement: | 1796 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4 l |
| Coolant: | 6.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 81 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.7:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 11.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 8.2 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 194 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 11.9 kg/Hp, 83.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122.6 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 11.9 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1370 |
| Max. weight: | 1770 |
| Max load: | 400 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 230 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 62 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4435 mm mm [225mm more] |
| Width: | 1710 mm mm [10mm more] |
| Height: | 1350 mm mm [40mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2700 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1410 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1420 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 110 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
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