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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. However, because the E46
series 2-door coupes and convertibles were still being developed at
the outset of its introduction, BMW continued to produce these
models as E36 versions through the 1999 model year. The M3 was
produced as an E36 from 1995-1999 in the US, and 1993-1999 in the
European market.
The E36 was introduced in late 1990 (1991 model) for Europe and
as a 1992 model for US and Canada.
E36 experienced enormous success in the market. It laid strong
foundations for the success that the BMW E46 experienced in subsequent years.
The E36 was considered the performance benchmark in its class.
US/Canada Models
- 318i, 318is, 318ic (1992-1995) M42B18
- 318ti (1994-1996) M42B18
- 318i, 318ti (1996-1998) M44B19
- 323i, 323is, 323ic (1996-1998) M52B25
- 325i, 325is, 325ic (1992) M50B25
- 325i, 325is, 325ic (1993-1995) M50TUB25
- 328i, 328is, 328ic (1996-1998) M52B28
- M3 (1995-1999 coupe, 1997-1998 sedan, 1998-1999
convertible) S50B30US and S52
(1996-1999)
Other Platform Applications
BMW made an entry level version of the E36 called the BMW Compact, a
three-door hatchback.
This platform is often referred to as the E36/5. In the United
States/Canada market the
car was sold as the 318ti and was equipped with a 1.8 L,
139 bhp M44B19 engine and was
priced at USD$23,000. Ostensibly
due to slow US sales of the E36/5 Compact, the E46 Compact was not sold in the United
States.
A modified version of the E36 platform designated as E36/7
was used for the BMW Z3
roadster in 1996-2002. The modification for the BMW Z3 Coupe was designated as
E36/8.
Even though the BMW factory was producing its own E36
convertibles, the Baur "Top Cabriolet" conversion was
still available, possibly out of respect for the long association of
the two firms.
Success
Among BMW enthusiasts, the E36 platform is considered one of the
best BMW designs of the past 20 years. Sales figures for 3 Series
coupes, sedans, and convertibles were at all time highs in North
America and Europe. The E36 repeatedly beat its competitors and won
many awards from major car magazines. BMW achieved a strong market
identity and presence due to the E36's high quality and "really fun
to drive" character. The car is however criticized by some for
departing from the previous E30 model, which was lighter and
smaller
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