BMW 3 Series
The compact sporting car introduced in 1975 as the successor to BMW's 02 Series.
Overview
BMW introduced the first 3 Series in 1975 as the successor to the two-door 02 Series. Known internally as the E21, it retained the front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and compact proportions of its predecessor while bringing the styling and model naming into line with the larger 5 Series.
The initial range used four-cylinder petrol engines and included the 316, 318, 320 and fuel-injected 320i. The cabin adopted a centre console angled towards the driver, a feature that became closely associated with later BMW interiors. Six-cylinder versions followed in 1977, led by the 320/6 and fuel-injected 323i.
The E21 was produced only as a two-door saloon by BMW, although coachbuilder Baur offered an open-roof conversion. Its combination of compact dimensions, rear-wheel drive and engines ranging from economical four-cylinders to smooth straight-sixes established the broad formula followed by later 3 Series generations.
Generations
First generation (E21, 1975–1983)
The E21 introduced the 3 Series name and BMW’s familiar numbered model hierarchy to the compact range. Detail revisions and a widening engine choice carried it through the late 1970s before the E30 generation replaced it during the early 1980s.
Later generation records will be added as the catalogue develops.