The BMW E36 was the basis for the 1991-1999 3 Series entry level luxury car and compact executive car, succeeding the BMW E30 and eventually replaced by the E46 in 1999. The BMW M3 was produced as an E36 from 1995-1999 in the US, and 1993-1999 in Europe. Because of its extraordinary success on the market, the E36 was responsible for laying strong foundations for the BMW E46's subsequent success.
Other Platform Applications
The entry level version of the E36 was known as the 3 Series Compact, a three-door hatchback. The American version of the car was named the 318ti and was fitted with a 1.8L, 139bhp M44B19 engine, at a price of USD 23,000. This platform is also referred to as the E36/5, but unfortunately wasn't sold in the US due to slow sales.
The BMW Z3, a roadster, was built on a modified version of the E36 platform that is known as the E36/7.
Additionally, a Baur "Top Cabriolet" conversion was available in spite of the BMW factory's convertible production.
Success
The BMW E36 platform is considered by many enthusiasts to be one of the best BMW designs of the past two decades. Not only were sales for 3 Series coupes, sedans and convertibles at an all-time high in both North America and Europe, the E36 also consistently beat out its competition in awards from major car magazines. This success, combined with its outstanding quality and its renowned "fun-to-drive" factor, gave BMW an incredibly strong market identity.
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