1993 BMW 3 Series Compact (E36) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the BMW 3 Series Compact (E36) ranges from approximately 1150 kg to 1255 kg (2535 to 2766 lbs). The maximum permissible weight, which includes passengers and cargo, is between 1635 kg and 1715 kg (3606 to 3779 lbs). This relatively lightweight nature of the E36 Compact contributes to its agile handling characteristics and efficient performance.

The E36 Compact offers a practical cargo solution with a luggage capacity of 300 liters (about 10.6 cubic feet) when the rear seats are in use. When you fold the rear seats down, this capacity expands significantly, reaching up to 1030 liters (approximately 36.4 cubic feet). This flexible storage space makes it suitable for small family needs or city driving where occasional larger cargo space is needed.

The BMW 3 Series Compact (E36) has a ride height or ground clearance ranging from 110 mm to 145 mm (4.3 to 5.7 inches). This ground clearance is fairly standard for a sporty hatchback, striking a balance between sporty handling and road comfort without being too low for typical urban or suburban road conditions.

The E36 Compact commonly features rim sizes of 15 or 16 inches. Tire size options on these rims typically include 185/65 R15, 205/60 R15, and 205/60 R15 W for the 15-inch rims, while the 16-inch rims frequently come with 225/50 R16 tires. These tire sizes contribute to the car's sporty feel and good road grip while maintaining ride comfort.

Yes, the BMW 3 Series Compact (E36) fits comfortably into a standard garage. Given its length of 4210 mm (approximately 4.21 meters or 13.8 feet) and width of 1700 mm (1.7 meters or 5.58 feet), it does not exceed the typical dimensions of a residential garage space, which usually measures around 6 meters in length and 3 meters in width. The relatively modest height of around 1390 mm (1.39 meters or about 4.56 feet) also poses no clearance issues.

Compared to the earlier E30 Compact, the E36 Compact is generally slightly larger and heavier. The E36's length of 4210 mm marks an increase over the E30 Compact's shorter dimensions, improving interior space and cargo capacity. Weight-wise, depending on the variant, the E36 is also a bit heavier, reflecting added safety features and modernized build quality. These changes provided a more contemporary driving experience, improved comfort, and enhanced road handling compared to the E30 Compact.

In the 1990s hatchback segment, the BMW 3 Series Compact (E36) stood out for combining sporty styling with practical dimensions. Its length of 4210 mm and luggage space of up to 1030 liters (with seats folded) made it competitive with contemporaries like the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf of the time. While it was slightly narrower and lower in ride height compared to some rivals, its rear wheel drive setup and premium feel often made it a choice for drivers seeking sportiness in a practical hatchback format.

The BMW 3 Series Compact (E36) has a height variation from approximately 1390 mm to 1393 mm (54.7 to 54.8 inches). While this difference is minimal, it can subtly influence headroom inside the cabin. Generally, the E36 Compact provides comfortable headroom for average-sized adults in the front and rear seats despite its relatively low roofline, reflecting its sport-oriented hatchback design. The moderately low roof contributes to improved aerodynamics and a sleek profile.

With a ground clearance ranging between 110 mm and 145 mm (4.3 to 5.7 inches), the E36 Compact is somewhat low compared to typical hatchbacks, enhancing its center of gravity for better handling and stability. However, this means that on rough roads, speed bumps, or uneven surfaces, drivers need to be mindful to avoid scraping the underbody. Despite this, the ground clearance is sufficient for typical urban and suburban driving, and the suspension is tuned to offer a sporty yet comfortable ride.