Bmw E30 M3 Vs E36 M3

The pros at Condor Speed Shop compare and contrast the BMW E30 vs. the E36 M3. Upgrade your BMW with performance parts from Condor for the street or track.

The E30 platform was the first to introduced the M3 edition. The E30 M3 is regarded to as one of the best sports cars of all time. But, has been praised to much, and now M3 E30's are insanely expensive.

E36 After the insane success of the E30, the E36 had some big shoes to fill in. But BMW delivered, making the E36 the most luxurious, and comfortable 3. A guide to help decide which M3 (E30, E36, E46, or E90) is right for you.

The folks at Car Throttle bring us the first review of all five generations BMW M3. From the E30 M3 to the latest F80 chassis, the UK folks take the iconic M3 to the ultimate test drive. I believe the E30 M3 tips the scales between 2600-2700 lbs, whereas the E36 M3 weighs around 3175 lbs.

That translates to a HUGE difference in tossability and the race. M3: The second generation M3 again upped the ante. Its 3.0L S50 six-cylinder revised to 240 hp and 225 lb-ft in U.S.

trim - a match for the 328i and lower models. Winner: E36 - While the E30 established the template for the 3 Series, the E36 models clearly moved the bar forward in terms of power and acceleration. E30 and E36 are the remaining BMW series worth giving a little attention to them.

So, what is the main difference between E30 and E36? The core difference is E30 edition has a robust construction design to tolerate insane abuse during the rally, while the E36 edition is more luxurious with weaker components for comfort purposes. BMW E30 or E36? Compare these iconic 3 Series classics in 2025 to see which one offers more fun, value, and daily drive potential. Bimmerforums is the preferred online BMW Forum and community for BMW owners.

At Bimmerforums, you will find technical how. An E36 M3 will be in a much higher class than an E30 non-m, even when the E30 has been modified. An E30 in the same class as a factory E36 M3 will destroy it, regardless of the rear end, simply by the modifications it's allowed to have.