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North American models
The first E36 M3 to be imported to the United States was the 1995 model, which received a 3.0 L engine with 240 hp (179 kW) and 305 N•m (225 ft·lbf) (S50B30US), a different suspension and a 0-60mph (0-96km/h) time in about 6 seconds. This coupe has a 3.0L 24-valve DOHC straight six-cylinder engine, available in 5-speed manual and automatic transmissions.
A CSL (Lightweight) M3 was produced in limited numbers for the 1995 model year. See below for details
The 1996-1999 model years had displacement bumped up to 3.2 L, still with 240 hp (179 kW), but torque increases to 320 N•m (236 ft·lbf) which is the same S52B32US engine used in the early M Roadster and M Coupe. The manual gearbox remains a 5-speed despite the European versions being upgraded to 6-speed. The 1996+ model is known for being more difficult to tune for performance, due to slightly smaller intake manifold runners and more complicated electronics (OBDII). It was also available as a sedan starting in model year 1997, and as convertible in 1998. Production of the sedan was halted in 1998, while the other models continued until 1999.
US sales figures include a total of 18,961 coupes, 7,760 sedans and 6,211 convertibles[5].