BMW Z3 I (E36/7/E36/8) photos

1995 — 2002 · coupe, roadster

photos

specifications

114–321

5.3 s

best 0–100

Photos

BMW Z3 I (E36/7/E36/8), coupe, blue, rear three-quarter view — photo 100207

1998 A compact blue three-door sports coupe shown from the rear three-quarter view parked on a paved town street with pedestrians in the background.

BMW Z3 I (E36/7/E36/8), coupe, blue, side view — photo 100206

1998 Side silhouette of a compact three-door sports coupe with a long hood against a backlit blue studio background.

BMW Z3 I (E36/7/E36/8), coupe, blue, side view — photo 100205

1998 A dark blue two-door sports coupe with an elongated hood and shooting brake profile parked against a night city skyline.

1998

1998

1998

1998

1998

1998

1998

1996

1996

1996

1996

1996

113

Z3 Roadster

117

Z3 Coupe

108

Z3 M Roadster

115

Z3 M Roadster

103

Z3 M Roadster

113

Z3 M Roadster

126

Z3 M Roadster

122

Z3 M Roadster

112

Z3 M Roadster

118

Z3 M Roadster

105

Z3 M Roadster

Z3 M Roadster

Z3 M Roadster

Z3 M Roadster

Z3 M Roadster

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About this generation

The BMW Z3 captured global fame as James Bond’s roadster and spawned the cult-favorite Z3 Coupe with its distinctive shooting-brake styling.

Launched in 1995, the BMW Z3 was the brand’s first mass-production two-seater roadster and the first BMW model assembled exclusively in North America. The E36/7 roadster achieved instant international stardom following its prominent appearance in the James Bond film GoldenEye. Featuring classic proportions with a long hood, short rear deck, and retro side gills inspired by the iconic BMW 507, the Z3 expanded in 1998 with the introduction of the E36/8 Coupe, whose unusual shooting-brake silhouette earned it a passionate cult following.

Mechanically based on the E36 3 Series platform with rear suspension components derived from the older E30 generation, the Z3 prioritized simplicity and driving fun. Power was delivered by a range of naturally aspirated four-cylinder and smooth inline-six petrol engines ranging from 1.8 to 3.0 liters. With its lightweight chassis, direct hydraulic steering, and traditional rear-wheel-drive layout, the Z3 delivered an authentic open-top sports car experience that remains highly sought after today.

Specifications

32 in 2 body styles

Roadster E36/7 24 specifications

4025 mm158.5 in

Length

1692 mm66.6 in

Width

1293 mm50.9 in

Height

2446 mm96.3 in

Wheelbase

165 l5.8 cu ft

Trunk

Petrol

1.8

114hp(85 kW)

1.8 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 10.5 s

1995–1998

Torque: 168 Nm (124 lb-ft)
Top speed: 194 km/h (121 mph)
Displacement: 1796 cc
Cylinders: 4
Engine: M43B18
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1150 kg (2535 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 7.9 l/100 km (30 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 189 g/km (NEDC)

1.9i

117hp(87 kW)

1.9 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 10.4 s

1998–2002

Torque: 180 Nm (133 lb-ft)
Top speed: 196 km/h (122 mph)
Displacement: 1895 cc
Cylinders: 4
Engine: M43B19
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1195 kg (2635 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 7.9 l/100 km (30 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 189 g/km (NEDC)

1.9i

117hp(87 kW)

1.9 l 4-speed automatic RWD 0–100 11.5 s

1998–2002

Torque: 180 Nm (133 lb-ft)
Top speed: 193 km/h (120 mph)
Displacement: 1895 cc
Cylinders: 4
Engine: M43B19
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1225 kg (2701 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 8.9 l/100 km (26 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 213 g/km (NEDC)

1.9

138hp(103 kW)

1.9 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 9.5 s

1995–1999

Torque: 180 Nm (133 lb-ft)
Top speed: 205 km/h (127 mph)
Displacement: 1895 cc
Cylinders: 4
Engine: M44B19
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1180 kg (2601 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 8.0 l/100 km (29 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 189 g/km (NEDC)

1.9

138hp(103 kW)

1.9 l 4-speed automatic RWD 0–100 10.5 s

1995–1999

Torque: 180 Nm (133 lb-ft)
Top speed: 200 km/h (124 mph)
Displacement: 1895 cc
Cylinders: 4
Engine: M44B19
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1210 kg (2668 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 9.2 l/100 km (26 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 219 g/km (NEDC)

2.0

148hp(110 kW)

2.0 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 8.9 s

1999–2000

Torque: 190 Nm (140 lb-ft)
Top speed: 210 km/h (130 mph)
Displacement: 1991 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB20
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1270 kg (2800 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 9.2 l/100 km (26 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 220 g/km (NEDC)

2.0

148hp(110 kW)

2.0 l 5-speed automatic RWD 0–100 9.9 s

1999–2000

Torque: 190 Nm (140 lb-ft)
Top speed: 206 km/h (128 mph)
Displacement: 1991 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB20
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1300 kg (2866 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 10.1 l/100 km (23 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 242 g/km (NEDC)

2.2i

168hp(125 kW)

2.2 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 7.9 s

2000–2002

Torque: 210 Nm (155 lb-ft)
Top speed: 224 km/h (139 mph)
Displacement: 2171 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M54B22
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1260 kg (2778 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 9.2 l/100 km (26 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 222 g/km (NEDC)

2.2i

168hp(125 kW)

2.2 l 5-speed automatic RWD 0–100 8.9 s

2000–2002

Torque: 210 Nm (155 lb-ft)
Top speed: 222 km/h (138 mph)
Displacement: 2171 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M54B22
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1290 kg (2844 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 9.5 l/100 km (25 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 228 g/km (NEDC)

2.3

168hp(125 kW)

2.5 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 7.1 s

1998–2000

Torque: 245 Nm (181 lb-ft)
Top speed: 209 km/h (130 mph)
Displacement: 2494 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB25
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1285 kg (2833 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)

2.3

168hp(125 kW)

2.5 l 4-speed automatic RWD 0–100 7.8 s

1998–1999

Torque: 245 Nm (181 lb-ft)
Top speed: 206 km/h (128 mph)
Displacement: 2494 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB25
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1315 kg (2899 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)

2.3

168hp(125 kW)

2.5 l 5-speed automatic RWD 0–100 7.8 s

1999–2000

Torque: 245 Nm (181 lb-ft)
Top speed: 206 km/h (128 mph)
Displacement: 2494 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB25
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1320 kg (2910 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)

2.5i

184hp(137 kW)

2.5 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 7.0 s

2000–2002

Torque: 237 Nm (175 lb-ft)
Top speed: 209 km/h (130 mph)
Displacement: 2494 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M54B25
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1315 kg (2899 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)

2.5i

184hp(137 kW)

2.5 l 5-speed automatic RWD 0–100 7.7 s

2000–2002

Torque: 237 Nm (175 lb-ft)
Top speed: 206 km/h (128 mph)
Displacement: 2494 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M54B25
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1345 kg (2965 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)

2.8

189hp(141 kW)

2.8 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 6.7 s

1996–1998

Torque: 280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Top speed: 225 km/h (140 mph)
Displacement: 2793 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52B28
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1260 kg (2778 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 9.4 l/100 km (25 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 225 g/km (NEDC)

2.8

189hp(141 kW)

2.8 l 4-speed automatic RWD 0–100 7.9 s

1996–1998

Torque: 280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Top speed: 218 km/h (135 mph)
Displacement: 2793 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52B28
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1335 kg (2943 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 10.6 l/100 km (22 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 254 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 2

2.8

190hp(142 kW)

2.8 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 6.7 s

1998–2000

Torque: 280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Top speed: 225 km/h (140 mph)
Displacement: 2793 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB28
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1315 kg (2899 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 9.4 l/100 km (25 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 225 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 3

2.8

190hp(142 kW)

2.8 l 4-speed automatic RWD 0–100 7.9 s

1998–1999

Torque: 280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Top speed: 218 km/h (135 mph)
Displacement: 2793 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB28
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1355 kg (2987 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 10.6 l/100 km (22 mpg US) NEDC
Emissions standard: Euro 3

2.8

190hp(142 kW)

2.8 l 5-speed automatic RWD 0–100 7.1 s

1999–2000

Torque: 280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Top speed: 223 km/h (139 mph)
Displacement: 2793 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB28
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1355 kg (2987 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 10.1 l/100 km (23 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 242 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 3

3.0i

228hp(170 kW)

3.0 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 6.0 s

2000–2002

Torque: 300 Nm (221 lb-ft)
Top speed: 240 km/h (149 mph)
Displacement: 2979 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M54B30
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1335 kg (2943 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 9.5 l/100 km (25 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 228 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 3

3.0i

228hp(170 kW)

3.0 l 5-speed automatic RWD 0–100 6.3 s

2000–2002

Torque: 300 Nm (221 lb-ft)
Top speed: 237 km/h (147 mph)
Displacement: 2979 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M54B30
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1370 kg (3020 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 10.1 l/100 km (23 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 242 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 3

M 3.2

240hp(179 kW)

3.2 l 5-speed manual RWD

1998–2000

Torque: 320 Nm (236 lb-ft)
Top speed: 220 km/h (137 mph)
Displacement: 3152 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: S52B32
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1390 kg (3064 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)

M 3.2

316hp(236 kW)

3.2 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 5.4 s

1997–2001

Torque: 350 Nm (258 lb-ft)
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
Displacement: 3201 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: S50B32
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1350 kg (2976 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 11.1 l/100 km (21 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 268 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 2

M 3.2

321hp(239 kW)

3.2 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 5.3 s

2001–2002

Torque: 354 Nm (261 lb-ft)
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
Displacement: 3246 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: S54B32
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1375 kg (3031 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 11.4 l/100 km (21 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 275 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 3

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Coupe E36/8 8 specifications

4025 mm158.5 in

Length

1740 mm68.5 in

Width

1306 mm51.4 in

Height

2446 mm96.3 in

Wheelbase

210 l7.4 cu ft

Trunk

Petrol

2.8

190hp(142 kW)

2.8 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 6.8 s

1998–2000

Torque: 280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Top speed: 231 km/h (144 mph)
Displacement: 2793 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB28
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1330 kg (2932 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 9.4 l/100 km (25 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 225 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 3

2.8

190hp(142 kW)

2.8 l 4-speed automatic RWD 0–100 7.9 s

1998–1999

Torque: 280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Top speed: 222 km/h (138 mph)
Displacement: 2793 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB28
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1370 kg (3020 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 10.6 l/100 km (22 mpg US) NEDC
Emissions standard: Euro 3

2.8

190hp(142 kW)

2.8 l 5-speed automatic RWD 0–100 7.1 s

1999–2000

Torque: 280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Top speed: 227 km/h (141 mph)
Displacement: 2793 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M52TUB28
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1370 kg (3020 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 10.1 l/100 km (23 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 242 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 3

3.0i

228hp(170 kW)

3.0 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 6.0 s

2000–2002

Torque: 300 Nm (221 lb-ft)
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
Displacement: 2979 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M54B30
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1330 kg (2932 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 9.5 l/100 km (25 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 228 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 3

3.0i

228hp(170 kW)

3.0 l 5-speed automatic RWD 0–100 6.3 s

2000–2002

Torque: 300 Nm (221 lb-ft)
Top speed: 247 km/h (153 mph)
Displacement: 2979 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: M54B30
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1365 kg (3009 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 10.1 l/100 km (23 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 242 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 3

M 3.2

240hp(179 kW)

3.2 l 5-speed manual RWD

1998–2000

Torque: 320 Nm (236 lb-ft)
Top speed: 220 km/h (137 mph)
Displacement: 3152 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: S52B32
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1390 kg (3064 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)

M 3.2

316hp(236 kW)

3.2 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 5.4 s

1998–2001

Torque: 350 Nm (258 lb-ft)
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
Displacement: 3201 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: S50B32
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1390 kg (3064 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 11.1 l/100 km (21 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 268 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 2

M 3.2

321hp(239 kW)

3.2 l 5-speed manual RWD 0–100 5.3 s

2001–2002

Torque: 350 Nm (258 lb-ft)
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
Displacement: 3246 cc
Cylinders: 6
Engine: S54B32
Aspiration: naturally aspirated
Curb weight: 1390 kg (3064 lb)
Fuel tank: 51 l (13.5 gal US)
Fuel consumption: 11.1 l/100 km (21 mpg US) NEDC
CO₂: 268 g/km (NEDC)
Emissions standard: Euro 3

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