BMW 3 Series Coupe (E36) 328i (193 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.2 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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)

Coupe (E36) Overview:

BMW 3 Series (Coupe (E36)). With 280 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1395 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.3 s). The top speed reaches 236 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

328i (193 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Excellent performance with strong torque from the M52B28 engine, offering effortless acceleration and a truly engaging driving experience with the manual gearbox.

Fuel Economy

Impressive balance of power and efficiency for a 2.8L six-cylinder, making it one of the more economical performance options.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast driving, highway cruising, spirited daily driving where performance and efficiency are key.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Engaging driving dynamics and balanced chassis
  • • Smooth and powerful inline-six engine options
  • • Timeless and attractive coupe design
  • • Strong aftermarket support and enthusiast community
  • • Becoming a desirable modern classic

Cons:

  • • Age-related maintenance and potential rust issues
  • • Common cooling system vulnerabilities (water pump, thermostat housing)
  • • Interior materials can show wear and tear over time
  • • Some engines can be thirsty, especially the larger six-cylinders when driven hard
  • • Safety features are basic by modern standards (no Euro NCAP rating)

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Sedan (E36): 1994 - 1999).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:3 Series
Generation:Coupe (E36)
Modification (Engine):328i (193 Hp)
Start of production:1995
End of production:1999
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Coupe
Seats:5
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:193 Hp @ 5300 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:69.1 Hp/l [81mm more]
Torque:280 Nm @ 3950 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M52B28 More details about the engine M52B28
Engine displacement:2793
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:6.5 l
Coolant:10.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:84 mm mm
Piston Stroke:84 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.2:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:13.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:6.7 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7.3 sec
Maximum speed:236 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7.2 kg/Hp, 138.4 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5 kg/Nm, 200.7 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.9 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1395
Max. weight:1780
Max load:385
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:405 l
Fuel tank capacity:62 l
Size:
Length:4433 mm mm [81mm more]
Width:1710 mm mm [133mm less]
Height:1366 mm mm [202mm less]
Wheelbase:2700 mm mm [821mm less]
Front track:1408 mm
Rear (Back) track:1421 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):110 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/60 R15
Wheel rims size7.5J x 15
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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