The BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 318i with the M40B18 engine features a longitudinally mounted inline 4-cylinder petrol engine with Bosch DME M1.7 fuel injection. This 1.8-liter engine has a displacement of 1796 cm³ (109.6 cu-in) and utilizes an 8-valve configuration with a compression ratio of 8.8:1. The bore and stroke measure 81 x 84 mm (3.19 x 3.31 inches), providing a balanced and efficient combustion process.
Producing a maximum power output of 113 PS (111 HP, 83 kW) at 5,500 rpm and a peak torque of 162 Nm (119 lb-ft) at 4,250 rpm, the engine delivers strong performance for daily driving. Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, power is sent to the rear wheels, offering a classic rear-wheel drive experience known for precise handling and stability. This setup combines BMW’s hallmark balance of performance and efficiency with responsive driving dynamics.
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 318i Engine Technical Data
| Engine type – Number of cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Engine Code | M40B18 |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Fuel System | Bosch DME M1.7 |
| Engine Alignment | Longitudinal |
| Engine size – Displacement – Engine capacity | 1796 cm3 / 109.6 cu-in Bore x Stroke : 81 x 84 mm 3.19 x 3.31 inches |
| Number of valves | 8 Valves |
| Aspiration | N/A |
| Compression Ratio | 8.8 |
| Maximum power – Output – Horsepower | 113 PS / 111 HP / 83 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 162 Nm / 119 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm |
| Drive wheels – Traction – Drivetrain | RWD |
| Transmission Gearbox – Number of speeds | 6 |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 318i Fuel Consumption (Economy), Emissions and Range
The BMW E36 318i with the M40B18 engine provides solid fuel efficiency across various driving conditions. On open roads, it achieves a consumption rate of 6.4 L/100 km (44 MPG UK, 37 MPG US), while highway driving returns 7.8 L/100 km (36 MPG UK, 30 MPG US). In city conditions, fuel consumption reaches 10.6 L/100 km (27 MPG UK, 22 MPG US), balancing urban performance with economy. With a fuel tank capacity of 65 liters (17.2 US gallons, 14.3 UK gallons), it offers a practical range suitable for both city commutes and longer trips.
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Open road | 6.4 L/100 Km 44 MPG UK 37 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Highway | 7.8 L/100 Km 36 MPG UK 30 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – City | 10.6 L/100 Km 27 MPG UK 22 MPG US |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L 17.2 US gallons 14.3 UK gallons |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 318i Performance
The BMW E36 318i with the M40B18 engine achieves a top speed of 198 km/h (123 mph), demonstrating solid performance for a compact sedan. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 11.3 seconds, while covering the 1000-meter mark in 32.4 seconds. These performance figures reflect a balanced blend of agility and efficiency, making it a suitable choice for both city driving and open-road cruising, with responsive acceleration and a stable top-end speed.
| Top Speed | 198 Km/h / 123 Mph |
| Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) | 11.3 s |
| Acceleration 0 to 1000m | 32.4 s |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 318i Size, Dimensions, Aerodynamics and Weight
The BMW E36 318i sedan offers a four-door design with a spacious interior, comfortably seating five passengers. It has a wheelbase of 270 cm (106.3 in), with an overall length of 443.3 cm (174.53 in), width of 169.8 cm (66.85 in), and height of 139.3 cm (54.84 in). The car’s curb weight is 1205 kg (2657 lbs), resulting in a weight-to-power ratio of 10.7 kg/hp, balancing performance with efficiency.
Aerodynamics are enhanced with a drag coefficient that aids in fuel economy and stability. The braking system includes 286 mm (11.26 in) front disc brakes and 228 mm (8.98 in) rear drum brakes, providing reliable stopping power. Both front and rear tires are sized 185/65 R15, mounted on 15-inch rims, ensuring steady handling.
The front suspension uses McPherson struts, while the rear is equipped with a multi-link Z-Axle, optimizing comfort and control. With a trunk capacity of 435 liters (15.4 cu-ft), the vehicle offers ample storage space, making it a versatile option for daily commuting and longer journeys.
| 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 | 1205 Kg / 2657 lbs |
| Weight-Power Output Ratio | 10.7 kg/hp |
| Trunk / Boot capacity | 435 L / 15.4 cu-ft |
| Front Suspension | McPherson struts |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link Z-Axle |
