The M52B20 is a 2.0-liter inline 6-cylinder petrol engine known for its smooth performance and refined power delivery. Aligned longitudinally, it operates with a Siemens DME MS41.0 fuel management system. With a displacement of 1991 cm³ (121.5 cu-in) and a bore and stroke of 80 x 66 mm (3.15 x 2.6 inches), this naturally aspirated engine utilizes a high compression ratio of 11:1.
Equipped with 24 valves, the M52B20 generates a maximum output of 150 PS (148 HP / 110 kW) at 5900 rpm and a peak torque of 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) at 4200 rpm, delivering a balanced performance ideal for both city driving and open road cruising. Power is sent to the rear wheels (RWD) through a 5-speed manual transmission, making it a rewarding choice for drivers who enjoy a responsive yet efficient driving experience.
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 320i Engine Technical Data
| Engine type – Number of cylinders | Inline 6 |
| Engine Code | M52B20 |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Fuel System | Siemens DME MS41.0 |
| Engine Alignment | Longitudinal |
| Engine size – Displacement – Engine capacity | 1991 cm3 / 121.5 cu-in |
| Bore x Stroke | 80 x 66 mm 3.15 x 2.6 inches |
| Number of valves | 24 Valves |
| Aspiration | N/A |
| Compression Ratio | 11 |
| Maximum power – Output – Horsepower | 150 PS / 148 HP / 110 kW @ 5900 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 190 Nm / 140 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm |
| Drive wheels – Traction – Drivetrain | RWD |
| Transmission Gearbox – Number of speeds | 5 speed Manual |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 320i Fuel Consumption (Economy), Emissions and Range
The M52B20 engine provides a balanced mix of fuel efficiency and performance. On open roads, it achieves an economical 6.8 L/100 km (42 MPG UK / 35 MPG US), making it ideal for long-distance travel. Highway driving consumes 8.3 L/100 km (34 MPG UK / 28 MPG US), while city conditions see a higher consumption rate of 11.4 L/100 km (25 MPG UK / 21 MPG US). With a fuel tank capacity of 62 liters (16.4 US gallons / 13.6 UK gallons), the M52B20 offers a substantial driving range, catering to those who appreciate both efficiency and power in varied driving environments.
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Open road | 6.8 L/100 Km 42 MPG UK 35 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Highway | 8.3 L/100 Km 34 MPG UK 28 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – City | 11.4 L/100 Km 25 MPG UK 21 MPG US |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L 16.4 US gallons 13.6 UK gallons |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 320i Performance
The M52B20 engine offers solid performance with a top speed of 214 km/h (133 mph), making it well-suited for high-speed cruising. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 9.9 seconds, and covers 1000 meters in 30.7 seconds, providing strong mid-range performance and quick response. This combination of speed and acceleration, paired with its fuel efficiency, makes the M52B20 an appealing choice for those seeking both practicality and a more spirited driving experience.
| Top Speed | 214 Km/h / 133 Mph |
| Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) | 9.9 s |
| Acceleration 0 to 1000m | 30.7 s |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 320i Size, Dimensions, Aerodynamics and Weight
This 4-door vehicle is designed for a balance of performance and comfort. It features a wheelbase of 270 cm (106.3 in) and an overall length of 443.3 cm (174.53 in), with a width of 169.8 cm (66.85 in) and a height of 139.3 cm (54.84 in). With seating for 5 passengers and a spacious trunk offering 435 liters (15.4 cu-ft) of cargo capacity, it provides ample room for both occupants and their belongings.
The car is equipped with 205/60 R15 tires on both the front and rear, ensuring good road grip and stability. Its braking system includes 286 mm (11.26 in) vented discs at the front and 280 mm (11.02 in) discs at the rear, offering solid stopping power. The curb weight is 1375 kg (3031 lbs), with a weight-to-power output ratio of 9.2 kg/hp, contributing to a responsive yet efficient driving experience. The front suspension uses McPherson struts, while the rear features a Multi-Link Z-Axle for optimal comfort and handling.
| 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 | 1375 Kg / 3031 lbs |
| Weight-Power Output Ratio | 9.2 kg/hp |
| Trunk / Boot capacity | 435 L / 15.4 cu-ft |
| Front Suspension | McPherson struts |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link Z-Axle |
