BMW , 3 Series , E36 , 325i (1991-1995) Little Known Facts

Engine and Performance

• The M44B20 engine used in the 325i has a compression ratio of 9.0:1
• The engine produces 168 horsepower at 5,900 rpm and 163 lb-ft torque at 4,300 rpm
• The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder
• The M44B20 engine has a redline of 6,400 rpm
• The 325i accelerates from 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 140 mph

Transmission and Drivetrain

• The E36 325i is available with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission
• The manual transmission features a Getrag 260 5-speed unit with a dogleg first gear pattern
• The automatic transmission is a ZF 4HP-14 4-speed unit with a lock-up torque converter and electronic speed control
• Rear axle ratio options include 3.27:1, 3.93:1, or 4.10:1

Interior and Features

• The E36 325i features a 7-button driver's information system (DIS) display screen
• Available interior trim levels include "Sport", "Comfort", or "Executive"
• Standard features on the 325i include power windows, power mirrors, and a rear window defroster
• Optional features include a CD player, power sunroof, and heated seats

Exterior and Design

• The E36 325i has a length of 177.9 inches (4,520 mm) and a wheelbase of 105.1 inches (2,670 mm)
• The car's exterior design is characterized by a curved front bumper, round headlamps, and a sloping rear roofline
• Available exterior colors include 15 different paint options

Safety Features

• Dual airbags are standard on the E36 325i
• ABS brakes are available as an option
• The car features a reinforced crash structure with dual side impact beams

Production Numbers

• The E36 325i was produced from 1991 to 1995, during which time approximately 220,000 units were manufactured worldwide
• In the US market, around 75,000 325is were sold between 1992 and 1994

Special Editions

• A "Sport Line" package was available on the 325i in certain markets, featuring a unique exterior trim kit and sport-tuned suspension
• In Europe, BMW offered a limited-edition "M3-powered" E36 325i, known as the "Burlington", which featured the same engine as the M3 but without its trademark rear spoiler

Tuning and Aftermarket

• The E36 325i has been extensively modified for track use and street performance
• Popular aftermarket upgrades include cold air intakes, exhaust systems, sway bars, and brake kits
• Engine swaps from the M3 or other E36 variants have become common among enthusiasts looking to increase power

Model-Specific Information

• The 1991-1992 models feature a slightly different front bumper design compared to later years
• From 1994 onwards, BMW's "Check Control" system became standard on all E36 models, featuring a single-trip odometer and warning lights for various systems.