The inline 6-cylinder M51D25 diesel engine is a turbocharged powerhouse with a displacement of 2498 cm³ (152.4 cu-in). It uses a Bosch VP20 fuel system and has a compression ratio of 22:1. Featuring a bore and stroke of 80 x 82.8 mm (3.15 x 3.26 inches) and 12 valves, this engine delivers a maximum power of 143 PS (141 HP or 105 kW) at 4800 rpm. Peak torque reaches 260 Nm (191 lb-ft) at 2400 rpm, providing solid mid-range pull. The longitudinally aligned engine drives the rear wheels (RWD) and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, offering an engaging and balanced driving experience.
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325 tds Engine Technical Data
| Engine type – Number of cylinders | Inline 6 |
| Engine Code | M51D25 |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Fuel System | Bosch VP20 |
| Engine Alignment | Longitudinal |
| Engine size – Displacement – Engine capacity | 2498 cm3 / 152.4 cu-in |
| Bore x Stroke | 80 x 82.8 mm 3.15 x 3.26 inches |
| Number of valves | 12 Valves |
| Aspiration | Turbo |
| Compression Ratio | 22 |
| Maximum power – Output – Horsepower | 143 PS / 141 HP / 105 kW @ 4800 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 260 Nm / 191 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm |
| Drive wheels – Traction – Drivetrain | RWD |
| Transmission Gearbox – Number of speeds | 5 speed Manual |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325 tds Fuel Consumption (Economy), Emissions and Range
The M51D25 engine delivers impressive fuel efficiency across various driving conditions. On the open road, it achieves 4.9 L/100 km (58 MPG UK, 48 MPG US), making it highly economical for long-distance travel. On highways, fuel consumption increases to 6.5 L/100 km (43 MPG UK, 36 MPG US), while in the city, it consumes 8.8 L/100 km (32 MPG UK, 27 MPG US), reflecting the higher demands of urban driving. The engine is paired with a 65-liter (17.2 US gallons or 14.3 UK gallons) fuel tank, ensuring a solid range between refueling stops.
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Open road | 4.9 L/100 Km 58 MPG UK 48 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Highway | 6.5 L/100 Km 43 MPG UK 36 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – City | 8.8 L/100 Km 32 MPG UK 27 MPG US |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L 17.2 US gallons 14.3 UK gallons |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325 tds Performance
This engine delivers a solid balance of speed and acceleration. With a top speed of 214 km/h (133 mph), it’s capable of swift highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) takes just 10.4 seconds, providing a responsive feel off the line. Covering 1000 meters in 31.4 seconds, it showcases strong mid-range performance, making it well-suited for both city driving and longer journeys. This blend of speed and acceleration contributes to a dynamic yet efficient driving experience.
| Top Speed | 214 Km/h / 133 Mph |
| Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) | 10.4 s |
| Acceleration 0 to 1000m | 31.4 s |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325 tds Size, Dimensions, Aerodynamics and Weight
This 4-door vehicle offers a spacious and well-proportioned design with a wheelbase of 270 cm (106.3 inches), enhancing stability and interior comfort. It measures 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. Seating for five makes it practical for families or small groups, while a trunk capacity of 435 liters (15.4 cu-ft) provides ample luggage space.
The vehicle’s aerodynamic drag coefficient, paired with a curb weight of 1440 kg (3175 lbs), balances efficiency and handling. Its weight-to-power ratio of 10.1 kg/hp contributes to both performance and stability.
Equipped with vented front disc brakes (286 mm / 11.26 in) and rear disc brakes (280 mm / 11.02 in), it offers reliable stopping power. It rides on 205/60 R15 tires and employs a McPherson strut front suspension with a multi-link Z-axle rear suspension for a blend of comfort and handling precision.
| 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 | 1440 Kg / 3175 lbs |
| Weight-Power Output Ratio | 10.1 kg/hp |
| Trunk / Boot capacity | 435 L / 15.4 cu-ft |
| Front Suspension | McPherson struts |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link Z-Axle |
