A Comprehensive Guide
The BMW 3 Series has been a benchmark in the luxury sports sedan market for over four decades. It has evolved through many generations and models, offering a wide range of engines, transmissions, and features. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide which BMW 3 Series is the best for you.
In this article, we will explore the various generations and models of the BMW 3 Series and help you determine which one is the best based on your needs and preferences.
First Generation (1975-1983)
The first-generation BMW 3 Series, also known as the E21, was introduced in 1975 and remained in production until 1983. It was available as a two-door sedan and a three-door hatchback. The E21 was powered by a range of four-cylinder engines, including a carbureted 1.6-liter engine and fuel-injected 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter engines.
While the E21 was a significant step forward for BMW, it had a few limitations that make it less desirable than later models. For one, it had relatively low horsepower output compared to newer models. Additionally, the E21 lacked the performance and refinement that later models would become known for.
Second Generation (1982-1994)
The second-generation BMW 3 Series, or E30, was introduced in 1982 and remained in production until 1994. It was available as a two-door sedan, a four-door sedan, a two-door convertible, and a five-door wagon. The E30 was powered by a range of engines, including a four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and diesel engines.
The E30 was praised for its handling, balance, and driver engagement, making it a popular choice among driving enthusiasts. It also offered improved performance and refinement over the E21. One of the most notable engines was the 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine found in the E30 M3, which produced up to 238 horsepower and became an icon in the world of motorsports.
Third Generation (1990-2000)
The third-generation BMW 3 Series, or E36, was introduced in 1990 and remained in production until 2000. It was available as a two-door coupe, a four-door sedan, a two-door convertible, and a five-door wagon. The E36 was powered by a range of engines, including four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and diesel engines.
The E36 marked a significant step forward in refinement and luxury compared to earlier models. It offered improved ride quality, comfort, and handling, making it a popular choice for daily drivers. The E36 also introduced modern safety features, such as driver and passenger airbags and anti-lock brakes.
Fourth Generation (1998-2006)
The fourth-generation BMW 3 Series, or E46, was introduced in 1998 and remained in production until 2006. It was available as a two-door coupe, a four-door sedan, a two-door convertible, and a five-door wagon. The E46 was powered by a range of engines, including four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and diesel engines.
The E46 was praised for its balance of performance, comfort, and style. Its handling and steering were particularly noteworthy, and it offered a variety of high-performance models, including the M3, which produced up to 333 horsepower. The E46 also introduced modern technology features, such as navigation systems and in-dash CD players.
Fifth Generation (2005-2013)
The fifth-generation BMW 3 Series, or E90/E91/E92/E93, was introduced in 2005 and remained in production until 2013. It was available as a four-door sedan, a two-door coupe, a two-door convertible, and a five-door wagon. The E90/E91/E92/E93 was powered by a range of engines, including four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and diesel engines.
The E90/E91/E92/E93 offered a significant step forward in luxury and technology compared to earlier models. It introduced features such as iDrive, a navigation and multimedia system, and BMW Assist, a telematics service. Additionally, it offered improved fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions.
Sixth Generation (2012-2019)
The sixth-generation BMW 3 Series, or F30/F31/F34/F35, was introduced in 2012 and remained in production until 2019. It was available as a four-door sedan, a five-door station wagon, and a four-door long-wheelbase sedan. The F30/F31/F34/F35 was powered by a range of engines, including four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and hybrid engines.
The F30/F31/F34/F35 offered improved performance, ride quality, and luxury compared to earlier
