The M43B16 engine is a compact inline 4-cylinder petrol engine with a displacement of 1596 cm³ (97.4 cu-in), tailored for efficiency and balanced performance. Equipped with a Bosch DME M1.7.1 fuel system, it is naturally aspirated and has a 9.7:1 compression ratio. Its 8-valve configuration and 84 x 72 mm bore and stroke (3.31 x 2.83 inches) support smooth fuel delivery and effective combustion.
Producing a maximum output of 102 PS (101 HP or 75 kW) at 5500 rpm and a peak torque of 150 Nm (110 lb-ft) at 3900 rpm, this engine offers responsive acceleration, ideal for daily use. Power is sent to the rear wheels (RWD) through a 5-speed manual gearbox, providing a dynamic yet dependable driving experience that pairs well with varied driving environments.
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 316i Engine Technical Data
| Engine type – Number of cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Engine Code | M43B16 |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Fuel System | Bosch DME M1.7.1 |
| Engine Alignment | Longitudinal |
| Engine size – Displacement – Engine capacity | 1596 cm3 / 97.4 cu-in |
| Bore x Stroke | 84 x 72 mm 3.31 x 2.83 inches |
| Number of valves | 8 Valves |
| Aspiration | N/A |
| Compression Ratio | 9.7 |
| Maximum power – Output – Horsepower | 102 PS / 101 HP / 75 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 150 Nm / 110 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm |
| Drive wheels – Traction – Drivetrain | RWD |
| Transmission Gearbox – Number of speeds | 5 speed Manual |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 316i Fuel Consumption (Economy), Emissions and Range
The BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 316i is designed with fuel efficiency in mind, making it a practical choice for both urban and long-distance driving. On the open road, it consumes just 5.6 L/100 km (50 MPG UK or 42 MPG US), making it highly economical for extended journeys. Highway driving sees a consumption of 7.3 L/100 km (39 MPG UK or 32 MPG US), while in city conditions, the consumption rises to 9.4 L/100 km (30 MPG UK or 25 MPG US), balancing fuel economy with responsive performance for urban use. With a fuel tank capacity of 65 liters (17.2 US gallons or 14.3 UK gallons), it allows for substantial range between refueling stops, enhancing convenience and efficiency in various driving scenarios.
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Open road | 5.6 L/100 Km 50 MPG UK 42 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Highway | 7.3 L/100 Km 39 MPG UK 32 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – City | 9.4 L/100 Km 30 MPG UK 25 MPG US |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L 17.2 US gallons 14.3 UK gallons |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 316i Performance
The BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 316i offers reliable performance, with a top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph), making it capable on highways and suitable for everyday use. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 12.7 seconds, ensuring smooth and consistent pick-up. Covering 1000 meters in 33.8 seconds, it delivers steady acceleration over distance, emphasizing efficiency and ease of handling rather than outright speed. This combination of top speed and acceleration makes the 316i an ideal choice for drivers seeking dependable performance along with balanced fuel economy.
| Top Speed | 195 Km/h / 121 Mph |
| Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) | 12.7 s |
| Acceleration 0 to 1000m | 33.8 s |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 316i Size, Dimensions, Aerodynamics and Weight
The BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 316i is a well-balanced 4-door vehicle, designed with practicality and comfort in mind. It features a wheelbase of 270 cm (106.3 inches), enhancing interior space and stability. The exterior dimensions measure 443.3 cm (174.53 inches) in length, 169.8 cm (66.85 inches) in width, and 139.3 cm (54.84 inches) in height, contributing to a sleek and compact profile suitable for urban and highway driving.
Inside, the sedan seats five passengers comfortably and has a trunk capacity of 435 liters (15.4 cu-ft), providing ample storage for everyday needs. The curb weight is 1190 kg (2624 lbs), and with a weight-to-power ratio of 11.7 kg/hp, it offers a balanced combination of efficiency and performance.
For braking, the vehicle is equipped with front disc brakes (286 mm / 11.26 inches) and rear drum brakes (228 mm / 8.98 inches), delivering dependable stopping power. It rides on 185/65 R15 tires both front and rear, which contribute to stable handling. The front suspension features McPherson struts, while the rear uses a multi-link Z-axle setup, providing a blend of comfort and responsive handling ideal for varied driving conditions. This overall configuration makes the BMW E36 316i a versatile and practical choice for everyday driving.
| 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 | Discs (286 mm / 11.26 in) |
| Rear Brakes – Dics dimensions | Drums (228 mm / 8.98 in) |
| Front Tyres – Rims dimensions | 185/65 R15 |
| Rear Tyres – Rims dimensions | 185/65 R15 |
| Curb Weight | 1190 Kg / 2624 lbs |
| Weight-Power Output Ratio | 11.7 kg/hp |
| Trunk / Boot capacity | 435 L / 15.4 cu-ft |
| Front Suspension | McPherson struts |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link Z-Axle |
