The BMW 3 Series (E21) was the first generation of the 3 Series, produced from June 1975 to December 1983. Over 1.3 million cars were produced, including various models like the 316, 320i, and the flagship 323i.

The BMW 3 Series (E30) is a compact executive car produced in various body styles, including saloon, convertible, and wagon. It was known for its diverse engine options and its success in motorsport, particularly the high-performance M3 E30 variant.

The BMW 3 Series (E36) introduced several firsts to the model line, including a hatchback body style, a six-speed manual transmission, and a four-cylinder diesel engine. The M3 E36 also saw an engine upgrade to a 3.2-litre displacement and 321 hp, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds.

The BMW 3 Series (E46) is the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, a range of compact executive cars produced from 1997 to 2006. It was available in sedan, coupé, convertible, station wagon, and hatchback body styles.

The BMW 3 Series (E90) is the fifth generation of the 3 Series, classified as a compact executive car (D-segment). It was offered in several body styles, including a 4-door sedan (E90), 5-door wagon (E91), 2-door coupé (E92), and 2-door convertible (E93), featuring both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options.

The E91 is a model within the BMW 3 Series generation (E90/E91/E92/E93) produced between 2005 and 2013. It is specifically the wagon version of this front-engined car, which was available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

The E93 is the convertible model of the fifth-generation BMW 3 Series, produced from 2006 to 2013. It was significant as the first BMW to feature a retractable hardtop instead of a traditional cloth roof.

The BMW E92 generation is a highly regarded coupe, part of the 3 Series and M3 lineup, which introduced the powerful 4.0-liter naturally aspirated S65 V8 engine in the M3 variant. Enthusiasts praise it as a benchmark for performance coupes, known for its powerful engine, responsive handling, and emotional sound.

The BMW 3 Series Touring (F31) offered a wide selection of gasoline and diesel powertrains, with power outputs ranging from 116 to 313 HP. Noteworthy dynamic options included the 335d xDrive and the 335i, offering 313 HP and 306 HP, respectively.

The BMW F34, or 3 Series Gran Turismo, is a five-door hatchback version of the sixth-generation 3 Series. It features a longer wheelbase and increased height, offering greater rear seat space and a more crossover-style feel compared to the sedan and Touring models.

The BMW F30 is the sixth generation of the 3 Series (2012–2019) that marked a shift towards increased luxury and comfort, with its coupe and convertible models spun off into the 4 Series (F32). Its legacy is debated, with some critics viewing it as the most "boring" generation due to its focus on refinement over pure sportiness.

The BMW 3 Series (G20) is a compact executive car that represents a new generation with significant updates in design, suspension, engines, and technology. It features a lighter body structure and entirely new suspension and steering systems compared to its predecessor.

The BMW G21 is the model code for the wagon version of the seventh-generation BMW 3 Series. This generation, which is also referred to as the G20/G21/G28, began production in 2018 and is offered with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

The BMW G81 is part of the current 3 Series generation, specifically identifying the high-performance M3 Touring model. It features a powerful M TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder petrol engine and intelligent M xDrive all-wheel drive.

The BMW M3 G80 is the 6th generation, produced from 2020 to the present. It is a sports car suitable for everyday use, with a twin-turbo inline 6-cylinder engine and available in RWD or AWD.

BMW is a prestigious German automaker founded in 1916, celebrated for its blend of performance, luxury, and precision engineering across models like the 3 Series, X5, and M4.

Price Range: $45,000 (3 Series) to $160,000+ (M8 Competition, XM)

Salary to Buy: $130,000–180,000/year income recommended with financing

Net Worth to Buy: $450,000+ recommended for cash purchase

Understanding your financial capacity ensures you can enjoy the BMW experience—where driving dynamics meet sophistication—without compromising long-term financial health.

Can you afford a BMW 3 Series in 2026?

Generations

E21

E30

E36

E46

E90

E91

E93

E92

F31

F34

F30

G20

G21

G81

G80