19 Jan 07
Larger and heavier than the E30 - which was starting to feel dated by the 90s - the E36 was the 'modern' 3-Series BMW needed. It's an easier drive than the earlier 3s, as well as having better safety features, but it's not quite as much fun.
The E36 M3 (initially 286bhp) was generally considered to be a bit of a disappointment despite its new straight-six engine, without much to distinguish it from the other models in the range, though the Evolution launched in 1996, with the superb 321bhp 3.2-litre unit, was a big improvement.
However, the E36 range does come in a wide variety of formats; besides the four-door saloons: the Touring estate (from 1995) grew larger and much more practical and the Coupe and Convertible - also in M3 form - are still fashionable. The three-door Compact (1994 onwards) is a cheaply finished hatchback for badge snobs. The diesel versions - refined and smooth for their time - are also sought-after; there's the 325td (115bhp) or 325tds (143bhp), as well as the 318tds Compact (90bhp).
The E36 is probably the easiest way into 3-Series ownership, with plenty of cheap saloons and even Touring estates. There are plenty of decent later examples around, many well-maintained former fleet cars and lots of low-mileage, lower-powered Coupes and Convertibles. Some of the early Compacts are looking a bit rough now though, having had a hard life shunting around town.
Four-door saloon; Touring estate; Coupe and Convertible; Compact three-door hatchback.
Diesels for economy, M3 Evolution for performance. Otherwise, 320i, 323i and 325i offer a good balance between affordability and performance.
316i is underpowered, except in the Compact body; 3.0-litre M3 isn't that exciting; diesel Compacts are dull.
Water leaks; cold-start problems; water/coolant loss, especially from radiator; rattling timing chain in M3; failed on-board computer and audio displays; thermostat and water pump failure (especially in M3). Identify engine management warning lights that show and check the service indicator; look for as much service history as possible. Fake M3s - lesser models with body kit.
Bottom-end saloons from £300, better ones at £750 and the very best up to £3,500; Touring estates and Coupes from £1,000; tatty Compacts well under £1,000 but spend £1,500-plus on a nicer one; Convertibles still over £3,000 with end-of-line 1999/2000 low-milers at £9,000 mark. E36 M3 coupes start from around £5,000, with very good ones at £7,500 and the best Evos at £10,000; best M3 Convertibles are still £15,000-plus.
