BMW Z3 1995-2002

BMW Z3 1995-2002 3.2L Engine Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 3.2L inline-6 engine in the 1995-2002 BMW Z3. Includes performance data, maintenance procedures, and OEM part numbers.

Updated Oct 4, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the 3.2l-engine specifications for the 1995-2002 BMW Z3, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific 3.2l-engine specifications by entering keywords such as 'torque', 'horsepower', or 'compression ratio'.

Navigate through the 3.2l-engine documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each section is clearly labeled for easy access.

Key Specifications

Displacement

3.2 liters (3152 cc)

Horsepower

240 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque

236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Compression Ratio

10.5:1

Fuel System

Sequential multi-port fuel injection

Available Specifications

Engine Design and Architecture

Detailed information on the design, architecture, and key components of the 3.2l-engine

Engine Block and Cylinder Head

Cast iron engine block with aluminum alloy cylinder head
Inline 6-cylinder configuration
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) design
Bore: 86.4 mm, Stroke: 89.6 mm
Compression ratio: 10.5:1

Valvetrain and Timing System

24-valve setup with hydraulic lifters
Dual VANOS variable valve timing system
Timing chain-driven camshafts
Valve diameter: Intake 33 mm, Exhaust 30.5 mm
Valve lift: Intake 9.7 mm, Exhaust 9.0 mm

Note: The VANOS system optimizes valve timing for improved performance and efficiency.

Performance Specifications

Detailed performance metrics and specifications for the 3.2l-engine

Power and Torque Output

Maximum horsepower: 240 hp @ 6000 rpm
Maximum torque: 236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Redline: 6500 rpm
Fuel delivery: Sequential multi-port fuel injection
Throttle body diameter: 68 mm

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

Fuel consumption: 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
Emissions compliance: Euro 3 standards
Catalytic converter: Dual-bank setup
Oxygen sensors: 4 sensors (2 pre-cat, 2 post-cat)
Fuel tank capacity: 13.5 gallons

Cooling and Lubrication Systems

Details on the cooling and lubrication systems of the 3.2l-engine

Cooling System

Liquid-cooled with electric radiator fan
Coolant capacity: 10.6 liters
Thermostat opening temperature: 88°C (190°F)
Radiator core thickness: 32 mm
Water pump: Mechanical, driven by timing belt

Lubrication System

Wet sump oil system with oil cooler
Oil capacity: 6.5 liters (with filter)
Oil pressure: 60-80 psi at 3000 rpm
Oil filter type: Spin-on cartridge
Recommended oil grade: 5W-30 synthetic

Note: Regular oil changes are critical to maintaining engine performance and longevity.

Electrical and Ignition System

Technical details on the electrical and ignition systems of the 3.2l-engine

Ignition System

Coil-on-plug ignition system
Spark plug gap: 0.032 inches (0.8 mm)
Ignition timing: 10° BTDC at idle
Spark plug type: Bosch FR7LDC+
Ignition coil resistance: 0.4-0.6 ohms

Charging and Starting System

Alternator output: 140 amps
Battery capacity: 70 Ah
Starter motor power: 1.4 kW
Voltage regulator: Integrated into alternator
Battery type: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)

Search Specifications

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Engine Specifications

General information

Engine Code: S52B32

Displacement: 3.2 liters

Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder

Aspiration: Naturally aspirated

Manufacturer: BMW

Production Years: 1995-2002

Vehicle Model: BMW Z3

Performance Specifications

Horsepower: 240 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Redline: 7000 rpm

Compression Ratio: 10.5:1

Fuel System: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection

Fuel Type: Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher)

Dimensions And Weight

Engine Length: 27.5 inches

Engine Width: 28.3 inches

Engine Height: 23.6 inches

Dry Weight: 403 lbs

Oil Capacity: 6.9 quarts

Coolant Capacity: 10.6 quarts

Cylinder Head Specifications

Cylinder Head Material: Aluminum

Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

Valve Diameter intake: 1.26 inches

Valve Diameter Exhaust: 1.18 inches

Valve Spring Pressure: 80-90 lbs

Camshaft Duration intake: 252 degrees

Camshaft Duration Exhaust: 244 degrees

Block Specifications

Block Material: Cast iron

Bore: 3.43 inches

Stroke: 3.58 inches

Deck Height: 8.66 inches

Main Bearing Diameter: 2.56 inches

Rod Bearing Diameter: 2.13 inches

Ignition System

Ignition Type: Coil-on-plug

Spark Plug Gap: 0.028-0.032 inches

Spark Plug Torque: 18-22 ft-lbs

Ignition Timing: 10-14 degrees BTDC

Ignition Coil Part Number: 12131748066

Fuel System

Fuel injector Flow Rate: 21.5 lbs/hr

Fuel Pressure: 51 psi

Fuel Filter Part Number: 13321740739

Fuel Pump Part Number: 16141180461

Throttle Body Diameter: 3.5 inches

Cooling System

Thermostat Opening Temperature: 88°C (190°F)

Radiator Capacity: 2.1 gallons

Water Pump Part Number: 11517527779

Coolant Mixture: 50% antifreeze, 50% distilled water

Cooling Fan Type: Electric

Lubrication System

Oil Pump Type: Gear-type

Oil Pressure: 60-70 psi at 3000 rpm

Oil Filter Part Number: 11427566309

Oil Viscosity Recommendation: 5W-30 or 10W-40

Oil Change interval: 7500 miles or 12 months

Maintenance Specifications

Valve Clearance intake: 0.010-0.012 inches

Valve Clearance Exhaust: 0.012-0.014 inches

Timing Chain Tensioner Part Number: 11311434079

Timing Chain Service Interval: Inspect every 60,000 miles

Spark Plug Replacement interval: 30,000 miles

Air Filter Replacement interval: 15,000 miles

Diagnostic Specifications

Idle Speed: 750-850 rpm

Idle Air Control Valve Part Number: 13411436379

Oxygen Sensor Part Number: 11781437984

Mass Air Flow Sensor Part Number: 13621433077

Diagnostic Connector Type: OBD-II

Diagnostic Trouble Codes: P0300-P0306 (Misfire codes)

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the 3.2L engine

7500

Oil and filter change
Inspect valve clearance
Check coolant level and condition
Inspect timing chain tensioner

Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts

15000

Replace air filter
Inspect spark plugs
Check fuel system for leaks
Inspect ignition system components

Replace spark plugs if necessary

30000

Replace spark plugs
Inspect and replace fuel filter if necessary
Check and adjust valve clearance
Inspect cooling system hoses and connections

Perform compression test if engine performance is poor

60000

Inspect timing chain and guides
Replace coolant
Inspect and replace oxygen sensor if necessary
Check and replace mass air flow sensor if necessary

Replace timing chain components if wear is detected

Common Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What is the horsepower and torque output of the 3.2L engine in the 1995-2002 BMW Z3?

The 3.2L inline-6 engine (M52B32) in the BMW Z3 produces 236 horsepower at 5,900 RPM and 232 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 RPM. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and high-revving capabilities.

What type of fuel system does the 3.2L engine use?

The 3.2L engine utilizes a sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI) system, which ensures precise fuel delivery to each cylinder. It is designed to optimize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions.

What is the recommended oil type and capacity for the 3.2L engine?

The 3.2L engine requires fully synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 engine oil, meeting BMW LL-98 specifications. The oil capacity is approximately 6.9 liters (7.3 quarts) including the oil filter.

What is the compression ratio of the 3.2L engine?

The 3.2L engine has a compression ratio of 10.5:1, which contributes to its high performance and efficiency. This ratio is optimized for both power output and fuel economy.

How often should the timing chain be inspected or replaced on the 3.2L engine?

The timing chain on the 3.2L engine is designed to last the lifetime of the engine under normal operating conditions. However, it is recommended to inspect it every 100,000 miles or if unusual noises (e.g., rattling) are heard from the engine.

What is the redline for the 3.2L engine?

The redline for the 3.2L engine is 6,500 RPM. Exceeding this limit may cause engine damage, so it is crucial to avoid over-revving.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW Z3 3.2L Engine Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual for the 3.2L engine, covering maintenance, repair procedures, and technical specifications.

3.2L Engine Oil Change Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for performing an oil change on the 3.2L engine, including recommended tools and safety precautions.

Timing Chain Inspection and Maintenance

Coming Soon

Detailed instructions for inspecting and maintaining the timing chain on the 3.2L engine to ensure longevity and reliability.

BMW Z3 3.2L Engine Performance Tuning

Coming Soon

Information on performance upgrades and tuning options for the 3.2L engine, including ECU remapping and aftermarket parts.

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Technical Information

All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
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