BMW 3 Series generations: a complete guide
Discover all the BMW 3 Series generations over the years
There have been many different BMW 3 Series generations over the years.
It's actually as old as the Rubik’s cube. But, unlike the puzzle toy, it’s been tweaked and improved over the years to become one of the most fierce and competent road cars money can buy.
Not to mention it’s one of the most recognisable cars in the world.
Let’s dive into its rich history, looking at all seven iterations, including the iconic M models.
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Full list of BMW 3 Series generations
Since 1975, BMW has been making the 3 Series – with many different versions and facelifts in that time.
Putting all the BMW 3 Series generations together makes you realise how far they’ve come, from the first-generation E21 all the way to the present day G20.
1st generation BMW 3 Series E21 (1975-1982)
 "BMW 3 Series (E21)")
When you think of an old car, the first-generation BMW 3 Series probably springs to mind.
The E21 is a classic example of a solid car that offers plenty of visibility thanks to the skinny A-pillars (synonymous with older cars), a thin steering wheel (again, classic) and a great-sounding 2.3-litre six-cylinder engine.
But it wasn’t particularly sporty and is often overshadowed by what came next. Either way, it’s an icon in its own right.
2nd generation BMW 3 Series E30 (1982-1991)
 "BMW M3 (E30)")
Rolling into the ‘80s, we saw the arrival of the second-generation 3 Series: the E30. Quite possibly the most iconic BMW 3 Series of all time.
Made popular by its sporty M3 variant, the E30 is still one of the most sought-after classics on the market.
Powered by either a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine and with the power of up to 230hp to match, there’s not much more you could want.
Used prices for the M3 EVO variant get as high as an eye-watering £300,000.
3rd generation BMW 3 Series E36 (1991-1998)
 "BMW 3 Series (E36)")
As we move to the third-generation BMW 3 Series, things get a little more serious and a little more sophisticated.
It got a revised cabin and swanky new rear suspension that meant the E36 rode much better than its predecessor.
You could also have your E36 as a saloon, convertible, hatchback (known as the ‘Compact’), coupé and an estate (‘Touring’), making it the most versatile 3 Series yet.
4th generation BMW 3 Series E46 (1998-2005)
 "BMW M3 (E46)")
Coming into the 2000s, we were greeted with the fourth-generation 3 Series, known as the E46.
When it first launched in 1998, it was a styling masterpiece with muscular curves and a smooth straight-six engine.
From taxis to race cars, the E46 was as diverse as they came, and even today, it’s looked back on with loving eyes.
5th generation BMW 3 Series E90 (2005-2015)
 "BMW M3 GTS (E90)")
The fifth-generation BMW 3 Series was a bit controversial when it came out. Penned by car designer Chris Bangle, the 'jagged shape' wasn’t well-received but has since come into its own.
With far more tech than ever before and the introduction of BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, it was a very exciting prospect at the time.
It was made even more special when BMW dropped a grumbling V8 engine in the front of its M3 variant.
6th generation BMW 3 Series F30 (2012-2018)
 "BMW 3 Series (F30)")
If you look on UK roads today, the sixth-generation F30 will be the most popular 3 Series you’ll see.
Spanning from 2012 to 2018, the F30 is modern, well-equipped and available in many different flavours – from the base Sport trim to the top-spec sporty M3.
What makes it even more special is that it’s the first 3 Series to get hybrid technology in certain models such as the 330e.
7th generation BMW 3 Series G20 (2019-present)
 "BMW 3 Series (G20)")
Finally, there’s the seventh generation 3 Series, called the G20 and launched in 2019.
This iteration got a whole host of important upgrades. From a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen running the latest iDrive software to improved efficiency through mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid assistance.
It’s a truly reimagined model that marks a significant point in BMW’s history before the arrival of all-electric versions in future next-generation 3 Series BMWs.
BMW M3 generations
 "BMW M3 Competition rear")
The first BMW M3 came out in 1986 with the E30 generation.
At the time, it was huge for the car industry to have a powerful saloon car that offered supercar-like performance.
Since then, every generation of the 3 Series has had an M Performance variant, with the most recent M3 Competition model producing a staggering 530hp – unimaginable power in the 1980s.
It’s safe to say the M3 has a bit of a cult following, but it's also widely appreciated by car enthusiasts worldwide.
What is the best BMW 3 Series generation?
It's hard to name the definitive ‘best BMW 3 Series generation’ because it largely depends on what you want, and what you can afford.
But if you’d ask a fan what they think, they’d probably go for an E30, E46 or the latest F30.
This is because the two former cars are superb classics to drive, whereas the later F30 is a proper tech fest with comfort at the forefront of its design.
No matter which generation you pick, you’re in for a treat.
Explore the latest BMW 3 Series cars for sale
Interested in owning your very own used BMW 3 Series? Check out our range of cars on offer.
With a variety of colours and trim levels to choose from, your dream car could be just a few clicks away.