The BMW E36 318i is powered by the M42B18 engine, a longitudinally mounted inline 4-cylinder petrol engine that combines performance and efficiency. With a displacement of 1796 cm³ (109.6 cu-in), this engine features a bore and stroke of 84 x 81 mm (3.31 x 3.19 inches) and a 16-valve configuration. The engine operates with a compression ratio of 10:1, allowing it to deliver impressive power and torque.
It produces a maximum output of 140 PS (138 HP, 103 kW) at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) at 4,500 rpm. The power is sent to the rear wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission, offering a classic driving experience known for its responsiveness and handling. The M42B18 engine strikes a balance between spirited performance and everyday drivability, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 318iS Engine Technical Data
| Engine type – Number of cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Engine Code | M42B18 |
| 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 | 84 x 81 mm 3.31 x 3.19 inches |
| Number of valves | 16 Valves |
| Aspiration | N/A |
| Compression Ratio | 10 |
| Maximum power – Output – Horsepower | 140 PS / 138 HP / 103 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 175 Nm / 129 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm |
| Drive wheels – Traction – Drivetrain | RWD |
| Transmission Gearbox – Number of speeds | 5 speed Manual |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 318iS Fuel Consumption (Economy), Emissions and Range
The BMW E36 318i with the M42B18 engine offers competitive fuel efficiency across various driving conditions. It achieves a combined fuel consumption of 8.3 L/100 km (34 MPG UK, 28 MPG US). On open roads, the economy improves to 6.4 L/100 km (44 MPG UK, 37 MPG US), while highway driving yields a consumption rate of 7.7 L/100 km (37 MPG UK, 31 MPG US). In urban settings, fuel consumption rises to 10.9 L/100 km (26 MPG UK, 22 MPG US).
With a fuel tank capacity of 65 liters (17.2 US gallons, 14.3 UK gallons), the vehicle has an impressive range of approximately 783 km (487 miles) on a full tank, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer journeys. The estimated CO2 emissions stand at 198 g/km, reflecting a reasonable environmental impact for a vehicle in its class. This combination of efficiency and range enhances the overall driving experience, allowing for extended trips without frequent refueling.
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Combined | 8.3 L/100 Km 34 MPG UK 28 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Open road | 6.4 L/100 Km 44 MPG UK 37 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Highway | 7.7 L/100 Km 37 MPG UK 31 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – City | 10.9 L/100 Km 26 MPG UK 22 MPG US |
| Range | 783 Km / 487 miles |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L 17.2 US gallons 14.3 UK gallons |
| CO2 emissions | 198 g/Km (estimate) |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 318iS Performance
The BMW E36 318i powered by the M42B18 engine boasts an impressive top speed of 213 km/h (132 mph), showcasing its capability for high-speed performance. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in just 10.2 seconds, reflecting a sprightly response for a compact sedan. Additionally, it covers the 1000-meter distance in 31.1 seconds, highlighting its agility and performance potential. These figures underline the car’s balance of speed and drivability, making it a dynamic choice for both everyday driving and spirited journeys.
| Top Speed | 213 Km/h / 132 Mph |
| Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) | 10.2 s |
| Acceleration 0 to 1000m | 31.1 s |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 318iS Size, Dimensions, Aerodynamics and Weight
The BMW E36 318i features a well-structured four-door design, comfortably accommodating up to five passengers. It has a wheelbase of 270 cm (106.3 in) and overall dimensions of 443.3 cm (174.53 in) in length, 169.8 cm (66.85 in) in width, and 139.3 cm (54.84 in) in height, offering ample space for both occupants and cargo.
With a curb weight of 1240 kg (2734 lbs), the vehicle achieves a weight-to-power ratio of 8.9 kg/hp, enhancing its performance dynamics. The aerodynamic design contributes to a lower drag coefficient, optimizing efficiency and stability.
The braking system consists of vented front discs measuring 286 mm (11.26 in) and rear discs at 280 mm (11.02 in), ensuring reliable stopping power. Both front and rear tires are sized at 205/60 R15, mounted on 15-inch rims, providing balanced traction and handling.
The front suspension utilizes McPherson struts, while the rear features a multi-link Z-Axle setup, contributing to a smooth ride and responsive handling. With a trunk capacity of 435 liters (15.4 cu-ft), this sedan offers practical storage solutions for everyday use and longer trips, making it a versatile choice for drivers seeking comfort and performance.
| 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 | 1240 Kg / 2734 lbs |
| Weight-Power Output Ratio | 8.9 kg/hp |
| Trunk / Boot capacity | 435 L / 15.4 cu-ft |
| Front Suspension | McPherson struts |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link Z-Axle |