1994 BMW 3 Series Touring (E36) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the BMW 3 Series Touring (E36) ranges between 1280 kg and 1410 kg (2822 to 3108 lbs), depending on the specific model and equipment. The maximum allowed weight (gross vehicle weight rating) is between 1780 kg and 1910 kg (3924 to 4210 lbs), which ensures safe operation even when fully loaded with passengers and cargo.

The BMW 3 Series Touring (E36) offers a luggage capacity of 370 liters (13.1 cubic feet) behind the rear seats, which is quite practical for everyday use or weekend trips. When the rear seats are folded down, this capacity expands significantly to 1320 liters (46.6 cubic feet), providing ample space for larger cargo items, making it a versatile vehicle for families and those needing extra cargo space.

The ride height of the BMW 3 Series Touring (E36) is 110 mm (4.3 inches). This relatively low ground clearance contributes to improved handling and aerodynamics, typical of sporty station wagons like this model. However, it means caution should be exercised on rough or uneven terrains to avoid underbody damage. It is best suited to paved and well-maintained roads.

Yes, the BMW 3 Series Touring (E36) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With a length of 4433 mm (174.5 inches) and width of 1698 mm (66.8 inches), it is compact enough to park indoors without difficulty in typical garage spaces, which usually accommodate cars up to approximately 5 meters (16.4 feet) in length and about 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in width.

The BMW 3 Series Touring (E36) is fitted with 15-inch rims, which were standard for this generation. It typically uses tire sizes 185/65 R15 or 205/60 R15, offering a good balance of comfort, grip, and handling performance. These tire sizes are versatile and make the vehicle suitable for diverse road conditions while maintaining its sporty ride characteristics.

Compared to its predecessor, the BMW E30 Touring, the E36 Touring grew in most dimensions, reflecting BMW’s evolution towards a more modern and spacious design. The E36 measures 4433 mm in length, which is longer than the E30’s approximate 4420 mm, and offers more interior space and cargo capacity. Width and height were also increased slightly to improve comfort. Overall, the E36 provides a more refined and spacious experience without compromising its sporty character.

The BMW 3 Series Touring (E36) is competitive among mid-1990s compact station wagons. Its 4433 mm length and 1698 mm width place it squarely in the segment alongside competitors like the Audi A4 Avant (B5) and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate (W202). While some rivals may offer slightly larger cargo space, the E36 is praised for its sporty handling, quality fit, and balanced size—small enough for urban maneuverability yet practical with 1320 liters of rear seat-folded luggage volume.

The BMW 3 Series Touring (E36) offers a practical yet sporty package for everyday use. Its moderate dimensions allow easy parking and driving in urban environments, while the generous cargo capacity with foldable rear seats suits a variety of daily needs from grocery runs to weekend trips. The car's dynamic handling and premium quality materials provide an enjoyable driving experience combined with the versatility of a station wagon body style.

Yes, the E36 Touring introduced several design and feature improvements over earlier 3 Series wagons. These included a more aerodynamic body shape, improved crash safety, and updated interior ergonomics with enhanced materials. The suspension and chassis were also refined to deliver better handling and ride comfort, reaffirming BMW's commitment to the 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos while increasing practicality through expanded cargo and passenger space.