Re: Early vs. Later E36 M3

["Ron Buchalski" <rbuchals@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Stuart (and others who are interested),

There's nothing wrong with the '95 and '96 models.  There are several 
differences between '95 models and '96+ models, including:

                 1995          1996+
Engine           3.0L          3.2L
HP               240           240
TRQ              225lb/ft      236lb/ft
Engine Mgmt      OBDI          OBDII
O2 Sensors        1             4
Wheels/Tires     235/40ZR17    225/45ZR17(F) on 17x7.5
                 on 17x7.5     245/40ZR17(R) on 17x8.5
                 all around
Final Drive      3.15:1        3.23:1

Some other comparisons, issues, concerns, and tidbits:

'95 models are easier (and cheaper) to modify because of OBDI

'95 and'96 models have narrow chrome trim around the front grilles, and have 
larger side markers than the '97-99 models do.  Also, later models (98-99?) 
changed the black bumper trim strip from smooth to pebble grain.  Minor 
changes, but they make a slight difference in appearance.

ASC+T (traction control) was not available on '95 models, but was standard 
starting in 1996.  The ASC+T throttle control on these cars is located in 
such a way to limit the choice of front strutbars (if you choose to add one 
at a later date).  However, there are several strut bars that will fit the 
'96 and later cars.

ASC+T measures speed variations between wheels, so changing tire sizes (from 
standard) can result in ASC+T mistakenly activating at high speeds (because 
the speed difference between front and rear wheels makes ASC+T think that 
wheelspin is taking place).  Just something to be mindful of.

'96+ models added staggered tire/wheels and some suspension geometry changes 
(front caster & camber, swaybar sizing, etc) to make them 'safer' (more 
understeer).  The staggered wheel/tire arrangement also prohibits you doing 
a proper tire rotation. (LR->LF, LF->RR, RR->RF, RF->LR).

'96+ models have a more free-flowing exhaust system, and have a steel header 
rather than a cast iron exhaust manifold

'96+ models have a digital climate control system, vs a 4-knob analog system 
on the '95s.

All BMWs with the M50/S50 and M52/S52 engines (any 2.5, 2.8, 3.0 or 3.2 
liter engine prior to 1997 timeframe, installed in 3-series (325i, 328i, M3) 
and 5-series (525i) cars) have a water pump with a plastic impeller, which 
seems to fail at around 60k miles.  Beginning in 1997, a metal impeller was 
used.

Newer models (98-99) added things like side airbags, lighted shift knob, 
different cup holder/console design

'95 models allow you to lock doors and close windows via the key lock.  '96+ 
models add the ability to also close the sunroof via the key.

'99 models have a cool three-spoke steering wheel

The sunroof in all models reduces headroom by over an inch, so if you're 
tall (6'+), or are tall from the waist up, you may have trouble fitting into 
a car with a sunroof.  Non-sunroof models are hard to come by.

There are standard and luxury models, with luxury models having power seats, 
wood trim, M-Contour wheels, etc.  The Luxury package adds over 100lbs to 
the weight of the car.

The standard sound system in all models is pretty poor.  The Harmon-Kardon 
option made things better.  If you're really concerned with having a high 
quality stereo, plan to install an aftermarket system.

All 3-series cars can benefit from the installation of the x-brace, which 
was used on the E36 convertible and the M3 Lightweight.  Some early '95 
models (9/94 build date and earlier) may not have the nutserts in the frame 
to bolt the x-brace on, but they can be added.  All 3-series cars starting 
in 9/94 have the nutserts installed.

Rear shock mounts on all E36 cars are weak, and will tend to wear out after 
30k miles.  The E46 rear shock mounts will work as a replacement, and are 
much stronger.

'96+ models have front strut tower reinforcements installed on top of the 
front struts.  These can be added to the '95 models.

Overall, you can't go wrong with any of the M3s, but the newer models tend 
to be a little better (running changes during production).  So, unless 
you're bent on some serious engine modifications (which would make the '95 
model w/OBDI a better choice), I'd suggest finding the newest model you can 
afford, with the lowest mileage, and a known repair history.

Once you buy it, join the E36 M3 Digest (http://www.bmw-m.net) and learn 
much more about the car.

Good luck,

Ron

>
>Date: Thu, 17 Jan 2002 20:28:28 -0500
>From: "Stuart Friedman" <shrinkwrap86@domain.elided>
>Subject: Early vs. Later E36 M3
>
>Okay, so iam considering taking the plunge back to BMW after years with 
>Audi; no complaints about the Audis, just looking for a change.
>
>I have some leads on 95 M3, but I havenoted several requests from others 
>looking for M3s asking for 97-99 only. What was different about the 95 and 
>96 models. Something worth fretting about??
>
>Stuart Friedman
>East Montpelier, VT


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