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Summary
  • For many, the top BMW 3 series in history are the E30 and E46 models.
  • The BMW 3 Series E21 has its faults, but it’s also the first model that eventually led to the development of later generations.
  • The seventh and latest generation of the BMW 3 Series is the G20, which gives the old BMW 3 Series a luxurious modern upgrade without letting go of its sporty feel.

BMW Group Design’s Senior Vice President Adrian van Hooydonk describes the BMW 3 Series as the “ultimate BMW and the face of the brand” for many customers. Given how the 3 Series continues to wow consumers with its impressive lineup even after 50 years, it’s certainly a fitting description.

While each generation has certainly brought something new to the table, there are BMW 3 Series models that definitely stand out from the rest.

BMW 3 E21

classic bmw 3 e21 in the fields
The BMW 3 E21 was first revealed at Munich’s Olympic Stadium in 1975 as the successor to BMW’s iconic 02 series.

While the BMW 3 E21 was a bit rough around the edges, it marked the beginning of a new era as BMW’s first 3 Series model. The E21 was first revealed at Munich’s Olympic Stadium in 1975 as the successor to BMW’s iconic 02 series. Initially, only a two-door sedan was available, but BMW later released a convertible version called the Baur Top Cabriolet.

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This first-generation E21 might not seem impressive next to later models, but it did serve as a blueprint for improving the BMW 3 series generations. The E21 also introduced a signature 3 Series trait, namely a dashboard that was slightly tilted towards the driver.

  • Engine Specs: 315 L4
  • Weight: 2,226.7 lbs
  • Power: 75 hp @ 5,800 RPM
  • Torque: 81 lb-ft @ 3,200 RPM
  • 0-60 mph: 14.8 sec

BMW 3 E30

white classic bmw 3 e30
While the standard BMW E30 could only produce around 90 horsepower, the M3 version could produce up to 238 horsepower.

Following the E21’s success, BMW released the second-generation 3 Series in 1982. This lineup included several new additions, including a four-door sedan and the high-performance M3.

While the standard E30 could only produce around 90 horsepower, the M3 version could produce up to 238 horsepower. BMW used this performance-oriented coupe to compete in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM). To this day, the M3 continues to be one of the most sought-after models in the lineup. In fact, a used BMW 3 Series E30 M3 can cost around $250,000, which is around three times the price of a brand-new M3.

BMW also released a Touring model of the E30, which began as a prototype made by BMW employee Max Reisböck in 1987. Due to a lack of trunk space, Reisböck cut the C-column of his own E30 and shifted it to the rear, creating the first BMW station wagon.

  • Engine Specs: 316 L4
  • Weight: 2271 lbs
  • Power: 90 hp @ 5,500 RPM
  • Torque: 103 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM
  • 0-60 mph: 14.2 sec
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BMW 3 E36

BMW 3 E36 parked on the side of the road
Compared to the boxy E30, the third-generation BMW E36’s design was much more coupe-oriented.

Compared to the boxy E30, the third-generation E36’s design was much more coupe-oriented. Its A and C pillars were much more sloped, and a glass layer covered its twin headlights. The E36 was also bigger, offering consumers more passenger room. Unfortunately, the E36 didn’t have an all-wheel drive option. All models in the lineup had a rear-wheel drive system.

Despite this, however, the E36 was a hit among consumers, allowing BMW to cement its name among other luxury brands at the time.

  • Engine Specs: 316i L4
  • Weight: 2,712 lbs
  • Power: 102 hp @ 5,500 RPM
  • Torque: 111 lb-ft @ 3,900 RPM
  • 0-60 mph: 14.2 sec

BMW 3 E46

blue BMW 3 E46 with mountains in the background
Produced from 1997 to 2006, the BMW E46 is the fourth generation and arguably one of the best BMW 3 series ever

Produced from 1997 to 2006, the E46 is the fourth generation and arguably one of the best BMW 3 series ever. The E46 sedan was the first to enter the market, but a coupe, convertible, and compact model soon followed. This was also the first time each type had significant styling differences.

Of course, BMW upgraded much more than just the design. The E46 had new and improved engines, with four and six-cylinder options. For example, the 2002 E46 model had an all-wheel drive version with a turbodiesel engine.

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To this day, the BMW 3 E46 continues to be the top-selling BMW model of all time.

  • Engine Specs: 316i L4
  • Weight: 2910 lbs
  • Power: 115 hp @ 5,500 RPM
  • Torque: 129 lb-ft @ 3,750 RPM
  • 0-60 mph: 11.9 sec

BMW 3 G20

image of a blue BMW 3 G20
The seventh and latest generation of the BMW 3 Series is the G20, which gives the old BMW 3 Series a luxurious modern upgrade without letting go of its sporty feel.

The seventh and latest generation of the 3 Series is the G20, which gives the old BMW 3 Series a luxurious modern upgrade without letting go of its sporty feel. The G20 is longer, wider, and comes with advanced technological features. For example, the 2025 G20 features a 14.9-inch high-resolution infotainment display with in-dash navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and more.

Despite its impressive ride quality and handling, however, non-M3 models of the G20 don’t have a manual transmission. While this might be a dealbreaker for some, others can certainly still enjoy the standard G20’s smooth 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.

  • Engine Specs: 3.0-liter L6
  • Weight: 3,988 lbs
  • Power: 382 hp @ 6,500 RPM
  • Torque: 369 lb-ft @ 1,550 RPM
  • 0-60 mph: 3.7 sec

About The Author
Written By Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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