page_title: BMW M3
section_title: Engine
hierarchical_section_title: BMW M3 / E36 generation (1992–1999) / Engine
caption_attribution_description: BMW M3 Evo Coupe E36
context_page_description: The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986.
  The initial model was available in a coupé body style, with a convertible body style added soon after. M3 Sedans were available during the E36 and E90 generations. Since 2014, the M3 has been solely produced in the sedan body style, due to the coupé and convertible models being rebranded as the 4 Series range, making the high-performance variant the M4.
  Upgrades over the regular 3 Series models include engines, handling, brakes, aerodynamics, lightweight materials and various interior upgrades.
context_section_description: The E36 M3 is powered by the BMW S50 straight-six engine. It was the first M3 to use a six-cylinder engine, which has since been used the majority of M3 models (albeit in turbocharged form since 2014).
  In most countries, the initial 2,990 cc (182 cu in) version generated 213 kW (286 hp) at 7,000 rpm and 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) at 3,600 rpm. North American models (except for the limited edition Canadian "M3 Euro-Spec" model) used the less powerful BMW S50B30US engine instead.
  The facelift models in late 1995 were upgraded to a 3,201 cc (195 cu in) version of the BMW S50 engine, generating 236 kW (316 hp) at 7,400 rpm and 350 N⋅m (258 lbf⋅ft) at 3,250 rpm. North American models used the less powerful BMW S52 engine instead.
caption: BMW S50 inline-6 engine
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