BMW 3-Series Through The Years
BMW 3-Series is definitely one of the most famous and long-standing series of all time. The German manufacturer started the production of this world-renowned line in 1975 with six generations as of 2018 today. According to BMW, 4-door Sedan and Sports Wagon models of the 3-Series generate the for roughly 25 percent (14 million) of the Munich-based manufacturer's Worldwide sales overall.
With the seventh generation of the 3-Series coming to the UK car market in March 2019, let's take a closer look at one of the most iconic BMW models ever:
Honorable Mention: BMW 02 Series, 1966 - 1975
Where it all started; the design that inspired the upcoming models of the 3-Series with the elongated hood, an upright A-pillar and shorter front overhang.
First Generation: The Original BMW 3-Series
First introduced in Frankfurt Motorshow, The Original 3-Series was slightly larger than the retired BMW 02 Coupe and was an instant hit at first in Europe and in the US the year after with its 110 HP, thanks to its 2.0 liter 4-cylinder Bosch K-Jetronic fuel-injected inline 2-door Sedan.
In 1983, global sales for the first generation 3 series were standing at an astounding 1.4 million units in total.
Second Generation: Introduction of E30
With the major success of its predecessor, the second generation followed the footsteps of its big brother by keeping its iconic design features of the three-box design and the elongated hood.
From 1982 to 1993, driving a BMW 3-Series was not only a matter of transportation buy a way of reflecting one's lifestyle in public.
Third Generation: Coupe Design Takes Over
Then came the '90s with its distinctive style and the 3-Series was definitely going to keep up with all the style elements of the era. With its coupe-like design and the chrome covered kidney grill, it was the rebirth of the 3-Series in 1991.
Fourth Generation: Bigger the Better
'size' was the key element of the slightly renovated E46 with 1.5 inches increase from the previous model and it had its distinctive features of its own with a raised roofline for increased headspace.
Fifth Generation: The Ultimate Driving Machine
With minor cosmetic changes from the previous one, the focus of the fifth generation was to emphasize the "pleasure of driving a BMW". Dubbed as "The Ultimate Driving Machine" on commercials, novelties offered by this generation was the iDrive system and Active Steering to make the driving experience even more exceptional in 2005.
Sixth Generation: The Aerodynamics
This generation is a standout with its more muscular and contoured outlook with the merger of the iconic kidney grille and headlights. Also, thanks to its fuel efficiency and lighter weight, slightly reduced horsepower didn't mean a decline in performance but a major plus for the owners.
Seventh Generation: G20
The latest of the 3-Series was unveiled in October 2018 at the Paris Motorshow with the market launch due in March 2019 and will be available in Advantage, Sport Line, Luxury Line, or M Sport trim versions. Company executives promise better dynamics and new technological features with renewed driver focus.
Looking For a 3-Series For Yourself?
If going through the years and learning about this iconic car made you want to own one, don't forget to check out the current 3-Series available on our stock:
