The Second Generation BMW M3: The Game Changer

💥The second generation M3, specifically the E36, became the ultimate driving machine and surpassed its predecessor, the E30 M3.

🏎️The E36 M3 featured a high-performance engine, the S50 B30, which made 286 horsepower and had independent throttle bodies and infinitely variable valve timing.

🚀The success of the E36 M3 was also due to its balanced handling, thanks to its patented multi-link rear suspension, known as the Z-axle.

💰The E36 M3 was affordable, offering high performance at a price only $3,000 more than the base 325i.

🧪The E36 M3's success in the US market saved the M brand, as the previous E30 M3 struggled to sell in America.

Why was the E36 M3 so successful?

—The E36 M3 was successful due to its high-performance engine, balanced handling, and affordable price.

What engine did the E36 M3 have?

—The E36 M3 was powered by the S50 B30 engine, a 3.0-liter inline-6 that made 286 horsepower.

What made the E36 M3's handling unique?

—The E36 M3 had a patented multi-link rear suspension called the Z-axle, which provided balanced and playful handling.

How much did the E36 M3 cost compared to the base model?

—The E36 M3 was only $3,000 more expensive than the base 325i, making it an affordable high-performance option.

What impact did the E36 M3 have on the M brand?

—The success of the E36 M3 in the US market saved the M brand, which was struggling with low sales of the previous E30 M3.

00:01The second generation BMW M3, specifically the E36, became the ultimate driving machine and surpassed its predecessor, the E30 M3.

02:42The E36 M3 featured a high-performance engine, the S50 B30, which made 286 horsepower and had independent throttle bodies and infinitely variable valve timing.

09:56The E36 M3 was affordable, offering high performance at a price only $3,000 more than the base 325i.

10:52The E36 M3 had a patented multi-link rear suspension called the Z-axle, which provided balanced and playful handling.

13:17The success of the E36 M3 in the US market saved the M brand, which was struggling with low sales of the previous E30 M3.