BMW M3 Roadster Technical Information
The BMW Z3 M Roadster is the performance variant of the Z3 convertible roadster. The car features many components taken from the M3 performance coupe and as a result achieves similar performance. The M Roadster was produced from 1998 through 2002. In 2006, the Z4 M Roadster served as its replacement.
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Engine
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Two engines were placed in the M Roadster, both taken from an M3. From 1998 to 2000, the M Roadster was powered the S52 engine from the E36 M3. This 3.2 liter inline-6 produced 240 break horsepower and 236 pound foot of torque. In 2001 and 2002, the S54 engine from the E46 M3 powered the M Roadster. While still 3.2 liters, this redesigned engine produced 315 break horsepower and 251 pound feet of torque.
Gearbox
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Standard for the M Roadster is the ZF Type C five speed manual gearbox. The gearbox features gear ratios of 4.21 for first, 2.49 for second 1.66 for third, 1.24 for fourth and 1.00 for fifth. The final drive is 3.23:1 for the S52 engine and 3.15:1 for the S54 engine.
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Suspension
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The M Roadster features independent McPherson struts in the front and semi-trailing arms in the read. Compared to the standard Z3 roadster, the M version rides on a wider track, is lower by 1 inch and features firmer springs. The car rides on 17 inch wheels that are 7.5 inches wide in the front and 9 inches wide in the rear.
Brakes
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Taken straight from the E36 M3, the M Roadster is equipped with 12.4 inch vented disc brakes in the front and 12.3 inch vented disc brakes in the rear. Anti-locking braking system is standard on all four wheels. The U.S. version of the M Roadster did not feature the floating disc brakes that were standard in all other regions.
Fuel Economy
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The M Roadster features a 16.6 gallon gas tank and gets an EPA estimated 19 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway. Premium 91 octane fuel is recommended.
Safety
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Front driver and passenger airbags as well as side airbags are employed in the M Roadster. As well as standard ABS, the U.S. version of the M Roadster came standard with stability and traction control.
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