The BMW M3 Convertible (E36) 3.2, produced between 1995 and 1999, represents the pinnacle of open-top performance for the E36 generation M3. Positioned as the premium variant of the E36 convertible lineup, it combined the celebrated M3 chassis and handling with a more powerful engine derived from the European-market M3. This model was never officially sold in the US market, making it a sought-after import for enthusiasts. It built upon the foundation of the E36 platform (shared with the 3 Series) but offered a significantly enhanced driving experience focused on performance and driver engagement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M3 |
| Generation | M3 Convertible (E36) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 (321 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1995 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 17 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg, 16.6 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.9 kg/Hp, 205.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 224.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 321 Hp @ 7400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 3250 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S50B32 |
| Engine displacement | 3201 cm3 (195.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.4 mm (3.4 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.75 l (11.36 US qt | 9.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 420 kg (925.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 230 l (8.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4433 mm (174.53 in.) |
| Width | 1710 mm (67.32 in.) |
| Height | 1340 mm (52.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1422 mm (55.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1444 mm (56.85 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17; 245/40 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E36 M3 Convertible 3.2 is the S50B32 engine, a 3.2-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine is a derivative of the S50B30 found in the European-market M3, but with an increased bore size bringing displacement to 3201cc. It features a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and four valves per cylinder. The S50B32 utilizes individual throttle bodies and a Bosch Motronic MS4.1 engine management system, controlling multi-port fuel injection. The engine produces 321 horsepower at 7400 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque at 3250 rpm. The engine’s high-revving nature and linear power delivery are hallmarks of the BMW M-division engineering. The transmission is a Getrag 285 6-speed manual, known for its precise shifts and durability.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.2-liter engine transforms the driving experience compared to the earlier 3.0-liter M3. The increased displacement and refined engine management deliver noticeably more power throughout the rev range. Acceleration to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 5.3 seconds, and the car boasts a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited). The 6-speed manual transmission allows for precise control and encourages spirited driving. The E36 M3 chassis, already renowned for its balance and responsiveness, feels even more capable with the added power. The convertible top, while adding some weight, doesn’t significantly detract from the car’s handling prowess. The steering is precise and communicative, providing excellent feedback to the driver.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M3 Convertible 3.2 was generally well-equipped, reflecting its position as the top-of-the-line E36 convertible. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, and various interior trim options. The interior design is functional and driver-focused, with clear instrumentation and well-placed controls. The convertible top is a power-operated soft top with a glass rear window.
Chassis & Braking
The E36 M3 Convertible utilizes a reinforced chassis compared to standard 3 Series convertibles, enhancing rigidity and handling. The suspension features MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear, optimized for performance driving. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The car’s suspension is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, offering a firm but not overly harsh ride.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E36 M3 Convertible 3.2 was highly regarded by automotive journalists and enthusiasts. It was praised for its powerful engine, balanced handling, and overall driving experience. Compared to the earlier 3.0-liter M3, the 3.2 offered a significant performance upgrade. It also stood out from other convertibles in its class, offering a more focused and engaging driving experience. Fuel economy, while not a priority for M3 buyers, was reasonable for a high-performance vehicle, averaging around 21 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although preventative maintenance is crucial for these older performance cars.
Legacy
The E36 M3 Convertible 3.2 has become a highly collectible car, particularly among BMW enthusiasts. Its combination of performance, handling, and open-top driving enjoyment has cemented its place as a modern classic. The S50B32 engine is known for its durability and tunability, making it a popular choice for modifications. Well-maintained examples command high prices in the used car market. The E36 M3 Convertible 3.2 represents a sweet spot in the M3 lineage, offering a compelling blend of performance, refinement, and driving pleasure.
