BMW M Roadster first generation
The BMW M Roadster first generation (1998–2002): dimensions, weights, reliability and the official figures of its 3 versions in the United States and Canada.
Model codes: E36/7
Dimensions, weights and capacity
| Specification | Europe | North America | Wikipedia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | |||
| Length | 4,030 mm RDW | – | 4,025 mm |
| Width | 1,740 mm RDW | – | 1,740 mm |
| Height | 1,270 mm RDW | – | 1,306 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,460 mm RDW | – | 2,459 mm |
| Weights and towing | |||
| Kerb weight | 1,325–1,350 kg RDW | – | 1,420 kg |
| Mass in running order | 1,425–1,450 kg RDW | – | – |
| Gross vehicle weight | 1,600–1,640 kg RDW | – | – |
| Seats and space | |||
| Seats | 2 RDW | – | – |
| Doors | 2 RDW | – | – |
| Luggage space (EPA) | – | 255 L EPA | – |
| Passenger space (EPA) | – | 2,095 L EPA | – |
| Performance | |||
| Top speed | 250 km/h RDW | – | – |
Tyre sizes (most common first): 225/45R17, 245/40R17
Ranges cover the generation’s versions and body styles; European and North American versions can differ. Sources: RDW type approvals (Netherlands), Wikipedia, US EPA fuel economy data, ASTRA type approvals (Switzerland). Wikipedia figures are used under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Reliability and owner reports
Owner complaints to NHTSA (US)
64 complaints for model years 1998–2002. 4 crashes · 1 fire
- Body and structure 41
Complaints are reported by owners and not checked by NHTSA; they are not adjusted for how many cars were sold, so popular models have more. NHTSA owner complaints
All 3 versions of the BMW M Roadster first generation
United States 1 version
Model years sold in the USA, from the EPA and the Department of Energy (fueleconomy.gov). MPG on the EPA test; litres per 100 km = 235.215 ÷ MPG.
| Years and version | Engine | Fuel | Gearbox | Drive | Consumption (combined) | CO₂ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998–2001 | 3.2 L | Petrol | 5-speed manual | Rear-wheel drive | 18–21 MPG (11.2–13.1 L/100 km) EPA | 263–307 g/km |
Canada 2 versions
Model years sold in Canada, from Natural Resources Canada fuel consumption ratings (5-cycle test).
| Years and version | Engine | Fuel | Gearbox | Consumption (combined) | CO₂ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998–2002Two-seater | 3.2 L | Petrol | 5-speed manual | 11.8–13.0 L/100 km 5-cycle | 271–299 g/km |
| 2000Minicompact | 3.2 L | Petrol | 5-speed manual | 12.2 L/100 km 5-cycle | 281 g/km |
Similar models from other brands
Official figures are measured on standard test procedures and differ between markets. Your consumption depends on how, where and in what conditions you drive.