Unlike the E36 M3, the E46 M3 brought all the good stuff from Europe to the U.S. market. Attractive in coupe and convertible form with flared fenders and unique bodywork, the sedan version sat out In all E36-generation cars, the entire cooling system is incredibly annoying. As an owner of an E36 for almost a decade, I can tell you that it’s headache-inducing. Also a good check of the drz. Yes, later model years will be more mechanically reliable. If you want OBDI for modding reasons, get a 95. I don't know that there were any big changes in models ranging from 96-98, but in general it will be better to get a newer E36 with mileage as good as you can find and preferably with service records. 447 posts · Joined 2014. #25 · Aug 1, 2015 (Edited) oooooooh, thats terrible news. If its of any interest, Australian delivered M3 have the smg boxes, and there is one for sale, E36 M3 SMG gearbox. here are some 6 speed boxes from german ebay, pretty cheap to be honest, 650 euros or near offer. gearbox 1. The E36 is such a great German design with great engines, good reliability, and a big enough aftermarket to make them viable today. Either the E46 or the E30. E46 is one of the best looking BMW ever made and it is the perfect combination of classic and modern. E30, because I like the look and the racing pedigree. The headline is true. I hate the E36 M3. And I’m going to give you several valid reasons why. Well, just look at it, with its stupid square face staring back at me. It’s anemic M engine. The way it looks like any other E36. Worst M car ever. Yup. I hate it, because damn it, it’s so good. Model History of the BMW M3 E36. 1992: E36 M3 coupé introduced with 282bhp 3.0-litre straight-six engine. 1994: M3 GT introduced as a homologated racing special. 356 units built all in British racing green for the UK market. 1995: M3 coupé and sedan upgraded to 316bhp 3.2-litre engines. In fact, there are plenty of great, fun-to-drive used cars on the market for little money. So let’s take a look at the top five best used BMWs for first-time drivers. 5. E36 BMW 3 Series 754. My Cars. 1994 325i. E36 325i is an amazing first car, take it from me. Get one that has been owned by an enthusiast, because they will be the ones that are the best taken care of, and maybe it'll come with a few mods, too. I'm in the same boat you are, timmer. With the E36’s popularity comes a cult following, and consequently, a massive selection of aftermarket parts, at affordable prices. So, next time someone harasses you about buying another project car, you can assure them it was a frugal choice (while also asserting that you do not have a BMW addiction). Professional 4GiWYJ.