The E36 automobile platform was the basis for the 1991-1999 BMW 3 Series entry-level luxury car / compact executive car. It replaced the BMW E30 and was eventually replaced by the BMW E46 in 1999. The M3 was produced as an E36 model in the US from 1995-1999, and in the European market from 1993-1999.
E36 was hugely successful in the market and laid the groundwork for the even more successful BMW E46 in later years. This platform is still considered the performance reference of its class.
Other Platform Applications
BMW released an entry-level version of the E36 known as the 3 Series Compact, a three-door hatchback. It is sometimes referred to as the E36/5. In the US, this car went by the name 318ti and had a 1.8 L, 139 bhp M44B19 engine, priced at USD23,000. It is believed this model did not sell well in the US, leading to BMW making the decision to not offer the E46 Compact in that market.
A modified version of the E36, sometimes called E36/7, provided the foundation for the BMW Z3 roadster.
Despite BMW creating its own E36 convertible model, the "Top Cabriolet" conversion created by Baur was still available, possibly in reverence of the strong relationship between the two companies.
Success
The E36 platform is widely recognized as one of BMW's best in the last two decades. Coupe, sedan and convertible sales for 3 Series were at record highs in Europe and North America. In comparison, the E36 would often come out on top against other competition and was awarded recognition by respected car magazines. The platform's quality and its reputation for being enjoyable to drive gave BMW an identifiable market presence that was greatly appreciated.
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