This inline-six engine, identified by the M50B25 engine code, is a 2.5-liter petrol unit designed with a longitudinal alignment and known for its balanced performance. It features a 24-valve layout with a bore and stroke of 84 x 75 mm (3.31 x 2.95 inches), and a displacement of 2494 cm³ (152.2 cubic inches). The Bosch DME M3.1 fuel system optimizes fuel delivery for efficient combustion, while a 10.5:1 compression ratio ensures strong output. Delivering a maximum power of 192 PS (189 HP or 141 kW) at 5900 rpm, the engine also produces peak torque of 245 Nm (180 lb-ft) at 4700 rpm. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration, this engine offers responsive performance and an engaging driving experience.

BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325i Engine Technical Data

Engine type – Number of cylinders Inline 6
Engine Code M50B25
Fuel type Petrol
Fuel System Bosch DME M3.1
Engine Alignment Longitudinal
Engine size – Displacement – Engine capacity 2494 cm3 / 152.2 cu-in
Bore x Stroke 84 x 75 mm
3.31 x 2.95 inches
Number of valves 24 Valves
Aspiration N/A
Compression Ratio 10.5
Maximum power – Output – Horsepower 192 PS / 189 HP / 141 kW
@ 5900 rpm
Maximum torque 245 Nm / 180 lb-ft
@ 4700 rpm
Drive wheels – Traction – Drivetrain RWD
Transmission Gearbox – Number of speeds 5 speed Manual

BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325i Fuel Consumption (Economy), Emissions and Range

This inline-six engine is efficient for its class, with fuel consumption rates tailored for different driving environments. On open roads, it achieves an impressive economy of 7 L/100 km (40 MPG UK or 34 MPG US), ideal for long-distance journeys. On highways, it consumes about 8.4 L/100 km (34 MPG UK or 28 MPG US), balancing performance with fuel efficiency. In city driving, the consumption increases to 13.2 L/100 km (21 MPG UK or 18 MPG US) due to stop-and-go traffic. The fuel tank capacity is 65 liters (17.2 US gallons or 14.3 UK gallons), providing a good range between refills for both urban and highway driving.

Fuel Consumption – Economy – Open road 7 L/100 Km
40 MPG UK
34 MPG US
Fuel Consumption – Economy – Highway 8.4 L/100 Km
34 MPG UK
28 MPG US
Fuel Consumption – Economy – City 13.2 L/100 Km
21 MPG UK
18 MPG US
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L
17.2 US gallons
14.3 UK gallons

BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325i Performance

This engine delivers solid performance metrics, with a top speed of 233 km/h (145 mph), showcasing its high-speed capability. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) is achieved in 7.9 seconds, offering a quick response for a vehicle of this class. Over a distance of 1000 meters, the car completes the run in 28.2 seconds, emphasizing its steady acceleration and power across longer stretches. These performance figures highlight a blend of speed, efficiency, and smooth power delivery that enhances the overall driving experience.

Top Speed 233 Km/h / 145 Mph
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) 7.9 s
Acceleration 0 to 1000m 28.2 s

BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325i Size, Dimensions, Aerodynamics and Weight

This four-door model is designed with a balanced structure and ample interior space, comfortably seating five passengers. It has a wheelbase of 270 cm (106.3 inches), an overall length of 443.3 cm (174.53 inches), a width of 169.8 cm (66.85 inches), and a height of 139.3 cm (54.84 inches), providing a sleek yet spacious profile. With a curb weight of 1330 kg (2932 lbs) and a weight-to-power ratio of 6.9 kg/hp, the car achieves a good balance of performance and handling.

Aerodynamically optimized, it has a low drag coefficient and braking system featuring vented front discs (286 mm / 11.26 inches) and solid rear discs (280 mm / 11.02 inches) for reliable stopping power. The car rides on 205/60 R15 tires, front and rear, enhancing grip and stability. With a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link Z-axle rear suspension, it offers a comfortable yet responsive drive. Additionally, it provides a generous trunk capacity of 435 L (15.4 cu-ft), making it suitable for everyday commuting and longer journeys alike.

Num. of Doors 4
Wheelbase 270 cm / 106.3 in
Length 443.3 cm / 174.53 in
Width 169.8 cm / 66.85 in
Height 139.3 cm / 54.84 in
Num. of Seats 5
Aerodynamic drag coefficient – Cx
Front Brakes – Disc dimensions Vented Discs
(286 mm / 11.26 in)
Rear Brakes – Dics dimensions Discs
(280 mm / 11.02 in)
Front Tyres – Rims dimensions 205/60 R15
Rear Tyres – Rims dimensions 205/60 R15
Curb Weight 1330 Kg / 2932 lbs
Weight-Power Output Ratio 6.9 kg/hp
Trunk / Boot capacity 435 L / 15.4 cu-ft
Front Suspension McPherson struts
Rear Suspension Multi-Link Z-Axle