BMW 316i/BMW 318i/BMW 318tds/BMW 320i/BMW 323i/BMW 325i/BMW 325td/BMW 325tds/BMW 328i/BMW M3/BMW Alpina B3/BMW Alpina B6/BMW Alpina B8 (E36). 1990–9 (prod. n/a). 4-door saloon, 2-door coupé, 2-door convertible, 5-door estate. F/R, 1596, 1796 cm³ petrol, 1665 cm³ diesel (I4 OHC), 1796, 1895 cm³ (I4 DOHC), 1990, 2494, 2752, 2793, 2997, 3152 cm³ (I6 DOHC), 2498 cm³ diesel (I6 OHC), 4619 cm³ (V8 DOHC). Third generation of the 3-series saw a complete overhaul in looks, with crisp, cab-backward proportions that were supposed to signal its rear-wheel drive, and, therefore, premium credentials. Z-axle multi-link rear suspension put it to the top of the class in handling stakes, and kept BMW at the forefront of the junior executive game. Early models, however, had quality niggles and were not as premium as one might have thought from the badge; range improved through the years. Base fours not as sparkling to drive as sixes. Coupé (rather than a two-door saloon for the first time) from 1992, cabriolet from 1993, Touring estate from 1995. Saloons made to 1998, other models to 1999. Spawned a truncated Compact hatchback in 1994.

Manufacturing locations: München, Germany; Greer, South Carolina, USA

Marque: BMW | Model: BMW 3er-Reihe | Predecessor: BMW 3er-Reihe (E30) | Successor: BMW 3er-Reihe (E46)