Each automotive manufacturer has its own featuring model. For Volkswagen it is Golf, for Mercedes it's G-class, and as for BMW it is… the 3-Series: the most popular and brand-defying model in its lineup.
Not so long time ago BMW has released a video that takes us on a short tour which shows the history of the 3-Series. From E21 in 1975 up to today’s F30. If you are not very interested in reading, just skip it to the bottom of the page and watch the video.
The first 3-Series E21 was released in 1975 and became a replacement for 1500 and 2002 coupes.
The next most notable was E30 produced from 1982 up to 1991. The E30 set a template for next generation models.
In the 1990-s the world saw E36 – the next generation 3-Series which feature was new modern design. Besides there was a new Z-Axle Multilink rear suspension that hugely improved handling.
The E46 was even larger, more powerful, more comfortable and safer than the E36. It had BMW's first direct injection diesel engine, the first petrol engine with two balance shafts and the introduction of double VANOS on six-cylinder petrol units. There was also xDrive - a new four-wheel drive system with a fully flexible distribution of power between the front and rear drive wheels.
Distinctive design, well-thought fuel consumption and emission, the third gen Common Rail direct injection and the brake energy regeneration system – this is what the E90 released in 2005 could be proud of.
Debuted on October 14, 2011 in Munich the F30 model arrived in showrooms in February 2012. The 2012 3 Series is powered by a new family of aluminum four-cylinder petrol engines ranging from 135 to 245 horsepower.
