BMW Z3 1995-2002

BMW Z3 1995-2002 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 1995-2002 BMW Z3 drivetrain system. Includes transmission, differential, driveshaft, and related components with accurate torque specs, fluid capacities, and maintenance guidelines.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

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

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'driveshaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the major sections and subsections.

Key Specifications

Transmission Type

5-speed manual / 4-speed automatic

Final Drive Ratio

3.45:1 (manual) / 3.91:1 (automatic)

Driveshaft Length

1,250 mm (49.2 inches)

Axle Ratio (M Models)

3.23:1

Maximum Torque Capacity

280 Nm (206 lb-ft)

Available Specifications

Transmission

Detailed information about the transmission system, including gear ratios, types, and technical specifications

Manual Transmission

5-speed manual transmission standard on all models
Gear ratios: 1st - 3.83:1, 2nd - 2.20:1, 3rd - 1.40:1, 4th - 1.00:1, 5th - 0.81:1
Final drive ratio: 3.45:1 (standard)
Synchronized helical gears for smooth shifting
Maximum torque capacity: 250 Nm (184 lb-ft)

Automatic Transmission

Optional 4-speed automatic transmission (GM 4L30-E)
Gear ratios: 1st - 2.79:1, 2nd - 1.55:1, 3rd - 1.00:1, 4th - 0.68:1
Final drive ratio: 3.91:1 (automatic models)
Hydraulic torque converter with lock-up clutch
Maximum torque capacity: 280 Nm (206 lb-ft)

Note: Automatic transmission models feature a sport mode for enhanced performance.

Differential

Technical details about the differential system, including types, ratios, and performance characteristics

Standard Differential

Open differential standard on all models
Final drive ratio: 3.45:1 (manual), 3.91:1 (automatic)
Differential housing made of lightweight aluminum
Oil capacity: 1.1 liters (1.16 quarts)
Limited-slip differential optional on M models

Limited-Slip Differential

Optional 25% limited-slip differential on M models
Final drive ratio: 3.23:1 (M models)
Enhanced traction and stability during cornering
Oil capacity: 1.1 liters (1.16 quarts)
Differential lock-up under heavy acceleration

Note: Limited-slip differential improves handling and performance on high-performance models.

Driveshaft

Specifications and technical details about the driveshaft system, including materials and dimensions

Driveshaft Construction

Two-piece steel driveshaft with center support bearing
Length: 1,250 mm (49.2 inches)
Diameter: 75 mm (2.95 inches)
Balanced for smooth operation up to 6,500 RPM
Universal joints rated for 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) torque

Driveshaft Maintenance

Inspect universal joints every 30,000 miles
Lubricate center support bearing during service
Check for vibrations or noise during operation
Replace driveshaft if damaged or out of balance
Torque bolts to 45 Nm (33 lb-ft) during installation

Axles

Detailed information about the axle system, including specifications and performance features

Rear Axle

Semi-trailing arm rear axle design
Axle ratio: 3.45:1 (manual), 3.91:1 (automatic)
Axle shaft diameter: 28 mm (1.10 inches)
Oil capacity: 1.3 liters (1.37 quarts)
Axle bearings rated for 150,000 miles

Axle Maintenance

Inspect axle boots for cracks or leaks
Replace axle oil every 60,000 miles
Check for play in axle shafts during service
Torque axle nuts to 200 Nm (148 lb-ft)
Ensure proper alignment during installation

Note: Regular maintenance of the axle system is critical for optimal performance and longevity.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Engine Type: Inline 4 or Inline 6

Displacement: 1.9L (1895 cc) or 2.8L (2793 cc)

Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 (1.9L) or 10.2:1 (2.8L)

Horsepower: 138 hp @ 6000 rpm (1.9L) or 189 hp @ 5300 rpm (2.8L)

Torque: 133 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (1.9L) or 203 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm (2.8L)

Redline: 6500 rpm

Transmission

Type: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic

Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.83:1 (manual) or 2.48:1 (automatic)
2nd: 2.20:1 (manual) or 1.48:1 (automatic)
3rd: 1.40:1 (manual) or 1.00:1 (automatic)
4th: 1.00:1 (manual) or 0.73:1 (automatic)
5th: 0.81:1 (manual)
Reverse: 3.46:1 (manual) or 2.08:1 (automatic)

Final Drive Ratio: 3.45:1 (1.9L) or 3.15:1 (2.8L)

Differential

Type: Limited-slip differential (optional)

Ratio: 3.45:1 (1.9L) or 3.15:1 (2.8L)

Fluid Capacity: 1.1 liters

Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO 75W-90

Driveshaft

Material: Steel

Length: Approx. 800 mm

Joint Type: Universal joints (U-joints)

Torque Spec: 70 Nm (52 lb-ft)

Axles

Type: Semi-floating

Spline Count: 28

Torque Spec: 90 Nm (66 lb-ft)

Bearing Type: Tapered roller bearings

Clutch

Type: Single dry plate (manual transmission)

Diameter: 228 mm (1.9L) or 240 mm (2.8L)

Fluid Type: DOT 4 brake fluid

Pedal Free Play: 5-10 mm

Transfer Case

Type: Not applicable (rear-wheel drive only)

Note: No transfer case as the Z3 is rear-wheel drive

Propeller Shaft

Material: Steel

Length: Approx. 1200 mm

Joint Type: Universal joints (U-joints)

Torque Spec: 70 Nm (52 lb-ft)

Cooling System

Radiator Capacity: 7.5 liters

Coolant Type: BMW Antifreeze/Coolant

Thermostat Opening Temp: 88°C (190°F)

Cooling Fan Type: Electric

Lubrication

Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 liters (1.9L) or 6.5 liters (2.8L)

Oil Type: BMW High Performance Synthetic 5W-30

Oil Change interval: 10,000 miles or 12 months

Transmission Fluid Capacity: 1.2 liters (manual) or 3.5 liters (automatic)

Transmission Fluid Type: BMW MTF-LT-2 (manual) or ATF (automatic)

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the BMW Z3 drivetrain

10,000

Engine oil and filter change
Inspect transmission fluid level
Check differential fluid level
Inspect driveshaft and propeller shaft for wear
Check clutch pedal free play

Use only BMW-approved fluids and lubricants

30,000

Replace transmission fluid (manual)
Replace differential fluid
Inspect axle shafts and bearings
Check cooling system for leaks
Inspect clutch system

Replace fluids with BMW-specific products

60,000

Replace transmission fluid (automatic)
Inspect and replace driveshaft U-joints if necessary
Check and adjust clutch pedal free play
Inspect propeller shaft for balance and wear
Replace coolant

Perform thorough inspection of all drivetrain components

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 1995-2002 BMW Z3 use?

The 1995-2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) drivetrain. Depending on the model and trim, it may feature a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, or 4-speed automatic transmission. The differential is a limited-slip type on certain performance-oriented trims, such as the M Roadster.

What is the gear ratio of the differential in the BMW Z3?

The differential gear ratio varies by model and transmission type. For example, the 1996-1999 Z3 1.9L models typically have a 3.45:1 ratio, while the 2001-2002 Z3 3.0i models with a manual transmission feature a 3.07:1 ratio. The M Roadster models often use a 3.15:1 ratio for improved performance.

How often should the differential fluid be replaced in a BMW Z3?

BMW recommends replacing the differential fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. Use only BMW-approved synthetic gear oil, such as SAE 75W-90 GL-5, to ensure proper lubrication and performance.

What is the torque specification for the driveshaft bolts on the BMW Z3?

The torque specification for the driveshaft bolts on the BMW Z3 is 81 Nm (60 lb-ft). Ensure proper alignment and use a torque wrench to avoid over-tightening, which can damage the drivetrain components.

Can the BMW Z3 drivetrain handle aftermarket performance upgrades?

Yes, the BMW Z3 drivetrain is robust and can handle moderate performance upgrades. However, excessive power increases may require reinforcing the differential, driveshaft, and transmission components. Always consult a professional to ensure compatibility and avoid warranty voidance.

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 Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide covering routine maintenance procedures for the Z3 drivetrain, including fluid changes, inspections, and torque specifications.

BMW Z3 Differential Rebuild Manual

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for rebuilding the limited-slip differential on the BMW Z3, including part numbers and torque specifications.

BMW Z3 Driveshaft Replacement Procedure

Coming Soon

A technical resource outlining the proper procedure for removing and replacing the driveshaft on the BMW Z3, including alignment and torque specs.

BMW Z3 Drivetrain Troubleshooting Guide

Coming Soon

A comprehensive guide to diagnosing common drivetrain issues, such as vibrations, noise, and fluid leaks, specific to the BMW Z3.

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