BMW 3 Series E36 Suspension

E36 suspension is divided by body, by engine and by model. Coupé, saloon, Touring, Compact and convertible often take different sets. H&R lists separate kits for four-cylinder and six-cylinder cars, AP titles its kits by engine, and the M3 has its own springs, kits and coilovers. Have the model and engine to hand before choosing.

Renewing the original set-up is straightforward: Bilstein B4 dampers, with B6 and B8 as the maker’s sport lines, and replacement springs from the B3 and ERL ranges. Several front dampers are handed, left or right, so order a pair. For a lower stance there are springs alone, or complete kits such as the B12 from Bilstein or Eibach and H&R’s Cup Kit in Comfort or Sport form.

Among the coilovers, ST’s XTA is the set that comes with top mounts, and KW has a V3 Clubsport besides its V1 to V3. Bilstein lists B16 and EVO R kits, the B16 for the M3.