I believe the stats for E36 M3's are as follows
1993-1996: M3 (Europe) 286bhp@7000RPM 231lbft@3600
1996-1999: M3 Evo (Europe) 321bhp@7000RPM 258lbft@3600
1993-1999: M3 (US) 240bhp@6000RPM 236lbft@3800
also i believe the US M3 is limited to approx 140mph whereas in Europe all Bimmers, M3 included are limited to 155mph, not that it makes a big difference i guess.
so those are the figures i know, but as for the differences in how the M3 EVO and non-EVO drive i have no idea. the M3 is rumoured to be better, but i dont know by how much.
i hear what youre saying about convertibles being heavier but with 286bhp to push it along im sure it'll be rapid at the very least. im not looking to tune the car as insurance premiums would go through the roof, and the only reason im looking at this particular convertible is that it is a good car at a good price.
so im still waiting for anyone out there who has one of the Europe spec cars to tell me what they think. anyone out there?
cheers
jay