BMW 328i
The E36 automobile platform was the basis for the 1991-1999 BMW 3 Series entry-level luxury car / compact executive car. It was the successor to the BMW E30 and was eventually replaced by the BMW E46 in 1999. The M3 was produced as an E36 from 1995-1999 in the US, and 1993-1999 in the European market. E36 experienced considerable success in the market and set a solid precedent for the later success of the BMW E46. The E36 was also renowned as a performance benchmark in its respective class.
Other Platform Applications
The E36 platform was also utilized to create an entry-level model, the 3 Series Compact, a three-door hatchback. In the US, it was sold as the 318ti, bearing a 1.8 L, 139 bhp M44B19 engine and being priced at $23,000. Despite the relatively weak US sales of the E36/5 Compact, the E46 Compact was not released in the United States. An adapted version of the E36 platform (called the E36/7) was also used for the BMW Z3 roadster. Besides the BMW factory-made E36 convertibles, Baur “Top Cabriolet” conversions are also available.
Success
The E36 platform is considered to be a hugely successful masterpiece for BMW over the past two decades. Record-breaking sales figures of 3 Series coupes, sedans, and convertibles were seen in North America and Europe, beating the competitions and winning numerous awards from major car magazines. This success, combined with the “quality” and “fun to drive” aspects of the design, greatly benefited BMW’s market image and presence.
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