BMW M3 Coupe (E36) 1992-1998 Photos, engines & full specs

The 1992 BMW M3 was the first M3 that featured a six-cylinder engine. Unlike its legendary predecessor, the E30 M3, it was available as a coupe, sedan, and cabriolet.

The unexpected success of the E30 M3 made the BMW board consider launching a second generation of the M3. The other M model, the M5, was very well received on the market so there was no reason not to pay attention to the second M3. This time, it was on the drawing board long before the E36 started production.

Unlike its predecessor, the E36 M3 was not so obvious. It didn't have flared arches and a big wing in the back. It featured a different set of bumpers and aerodynamically styled sills. The rear-view mirrors were different too. Actually, the M3 didn't feature any spoiler or wing in the back.

Inside, there were some differences when compared with the rest of the E36 series. A set of sport-bucket seats was installed in the front and a different upholstery was used for the car. The M-badge was on the instrument cluster, and on the seats.

In Europe, the car offered 286 hp from its 3.0-liter engine, but in the U.S. if offered just 240 hp due to fuel adjustments and regulations. After 1995, the engine was increased to a 3.2-liter, which led to 321 hp for the European model while the U.S. spec model featured the same 240 hp but a bigger torque. The pre-facelift versions were mated to a standard 5-speed manual and after 1995 it was equipped with a 6-speed. An option for a robotized gearbox, named SMG was available for both versions.