From E21 to G20
The 3 Series began with the E21 in 1975. Across seven generations it grew, gained new body styles and adopted new electronics, while remaining a central BMW for people who value everyday usability and a driver-focused character.
Why E30 mattered
The second generation expanded the family with a four-door body, Touring, convertible, all-wheel drive and the first M3. The 3 Series could now fit very different lives, rather than a single idea of a sporting car.
Reading the generation archive
A chassis code identifies a generation or body style, not an engine. The E90 saloon and E92 coupé, for example, belong to the E9x family. Compare code, year, engine and equipment separately.
