Few cars have shaped the automotive world like the BMW 3 Series. Launched in 1975, it became the benchmark for compact sports sedans, perfectly blending performance, luxury, and driving pleasure. Here's a quick tour through time – from the original E21 to the 2025 model.
🔹 1st Gen – E21 (1975–1983)
The birth of the legend. The E21 replaced the BMW 2002 and introduced the world to the idea of a luxury compact sports sedan. With its driver-focused cockpit and rear-wheel drive, it laid the foundation for all future 3 Series.
🔹 2nd Gen – E30 (1982–1994)
An icon in its own right. The E30 brought in new body styles (convertible, wagon), introduced all-wheel drive, and gave birth to the legendary E30 M3 – still a cult favorite today.
🔹 3rd Gen – E36 (1990–2000)
Modernized and refined. The E36 featured more rounded styling, improved aerodynamics, and the first 3 Series diesel and compact hatchback models. It marked a turning point toward more luxurious interiors.
🔹 4th Gen – E46 (1998–2006)
Many still consider this the perfect blend of analog and digital driving. The E46 was praised for its handling, build quality, and engines – especially the high-revving E46 M3 with its 3.2L straight-six engine.
🔹 5th Gen – E90/E91/E92/E93 (2005–2013)
A shift toward a more muscular, tech-heavy 3 Series. This generation added hardtop convertibles, turbocharged engines, and the legendary E92 M3 with a naturally aspirated V8 – a first (and last) for the 3 Series.
🔹 6th Gen – F30/F31/F34 (2011–2019)
The first 3 Series to offer turbocharged engines across the lineup. It also introduced the Gran Turismo (GT) body style. BMW began emphasizing connectivity and efficiency, including hybrid options.
🔹 7th Gen – G20/G21 (2018–2025)
A major leap in tech and design. With sharp lines, a digital cockpit, larger kidney grilles, and semi-autonomous driving features, the G20 redefined modern BMW luxury and driving tech. The M340i xDrive became a fan favorite, bridging the gap to the M3.
🔹 8th Gen – 2025 and Beyond
The latest evolution (launched in 2025) brings a completely reimagined interior, a focus on sustainability, electrified drivetrains, and next-gen iDrive. BMW balances its performance legacy with an eye on the future – expect plug-in hybrids, advanced AI driving systems, and even a fully electric i3 Sedan as part of the new lineup.
🏆 50 Years of Driving Excellence
From analog classics to digital dynamism, the 3 Series has remained the heart of BMW for five decades. It's not just a car – it's a statement.
🔶 1. Most Expensive 3 Series Model Ever Sold
🏆 BMW E30 M3 Sport Evolution (1990) – Limited & Expensive
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Current market price: Up to $250,000+ in top condition.
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Why? It’s rare, race-inspired, and a collector’s dream. Only ~600 Sport Evolution (Evo III) models were made.
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Engine: 2.5L inline-4 with upgrades for racing.
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Unique features: Adjustable front splitter/rear wing, lightweight panels, Recaro seats.
💎 Runner-Up: BMW M3 GTS (E92, 2010)
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Track-focused V8 monster, extremely rare.
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Only 135 units worldwide.
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Market price today: $200,000+
🔶 2. Best-Selling 3 Series Model
🥇 BMW E46 (1998–2006)
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Most popular generation overall.
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Estimated sales: Over 3.5 million units globally.
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Loved for its perfect mix of analog feel and modern reliability.
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Especially popular in Europe, U.S., and Asia.
🥈 BMW F30 (2011–2019)
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Very close in sales, especially because of expanding global markets.
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First to fully embrace turbocharging and hybrids.
🔶 3. Most Limited Production Models (Rare & Collectible)
These are the rarest 3 Series models – true limited editions:
🔹 E30 M3 Sport Evolution (1990)
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Only ~600 units
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Most valuable classic 3 Series M car.
🔹 E92 M3 GTS (2010)
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Only 135 made
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Lightweight, track-ready, orange-only beast.
🔹 F80 M3 CS (2018)
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~1,200 units globally
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Lighter and more powerful than the standard F80 M3.
🔹 G80 M3 CS (2023–2024)
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Limited to ~1,700 units worldwide
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More power and carbon parts, modern take on the CS tradition.
Summary Table:
Category Model Notes 💰 Most Expensive E30 M3 Sport Evolution (1990) Up to $250k, only ~600 made 🏆 Best-Selling E46 (1998–2006) ~3.5 million units sold 🔒 Most Limited E92 M3 GTS (2010) Only 135 units made
