Third-generation 3 Series (E36, 1992–1998)
1992–1998 (US)
The third-generation E36 (US 1992–1998) modernized the 3 Series with a larger body and multilink rear suspension, and was offered in the widest range of shapes in the model's history — sedan, coupe, convertible, Touring wagon, and the hatchback Compact. Its M3 introduced six-cylinder M power (US cars from 1995), making the E36 a hugely popular enthusiast platform.
Photo: “1995-1996 BMW 318i (E36) Sedan” by Jirapat Chroenkeskij / Wikimedia Commons — CC0 1.0 . Cropped to 16:9.
1992–1998 (US)
Overview
The third-generation E36 (US 1992–1998) modernized the 3 Series with a larger body and multilink rear suspension, and was offered in the widest range of shapes in the model's history — sedan, coupe, convertible, Touring wagon, and the hatchback Compact. Its M3 introduced six-cylinder M power (US cars from 1995), making the E36 a hugely popular enthusiast platform.
Milestones
Highlights
- All-new platform with multilink rear suspension.
- Widest body range yet: sedan, coupe, convertible, Touring, and Compact hatchback.
- The E36 M3 brought six-cylinder M power (US cars from 1995).
Model years in this generation