The BMW E30 stands as a legendary symbol of performance and design from the 1980s, beloved by enthusiasts worldwide. Understanding its origin helps appreciate its enduring impact on sports cars.
The BMW E30 was first introduced in 1981, with production commencing that year and continuing through 1990. As a compact executive coupe, it became the foundation of BMW’s E-series, setting benchmarks in handling and engineering.
Built on a refined platform derived from the E21, the E30 featured a lightweight construction, precise handling, and a range of powerful engines. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and sport-tuned suspension made it a favorite among drivers seeking dynamic performance.
The E30 gained iconic status through its success in motorsport, especially group A touring car racing. Its blend of style, power, and agility cemented its place in automotive culture, inspiring generations of performance vehicles.
Launched in 1981, the BMW E30 remains a timeless classic, representing an era of innovation and driving passion. Whether admired on the track or preserved in concours collections, the E30 continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. Explore its legacy and consider owning a piece of automotive history.
The BMW E30 is the second generation of BMW 3 Series, which was produced from 1982 to 1994 and replaced the E21 3 Series. The model range included 2-door saloon (sometimes referred to as a coupé) and convertible body styles, [4][5] as well as being the first 3 Series to be produced in 4-door saloon and wagon/estate body styles. The BMW E30 is an entry-level luxury car which was produced by BMW from 1982 to 1994.
The initial models used the coupe (two-door sedan) body style. Four-door sedan models were introduced in 1983, convertibles were introduced in 1985 and estate ("Touring") models were introduced in 1987. The second generation of BMW 3 Series, the E30, was introduced for the 1983 model year.
One of the most well known generations of BMW 3 Series, the E30 featured variants such as the 316, 316i, 318i, 318is, 320i, 320is, 323i, 324d, 324td, 325, 325e, 325es, 325ix, 325is and the 325i. The BMW E30, the successor of the E21 3 Series, is the second generation of the BMW 3 Series. It was manufactured between 1982 and 1994.
In addition to being the first 3 Series to be produced in 4-door sedan and wagon/estate body types, the model range featured 2. The E30 3 Series was the second generation BMW's compact saloon Almost 2.4 million were produced between 1982 and 1994 The E30 is 4.3 metres long, just under 1.4 metres wide and weighs between 1080-1200kg Power ranges from 75hp in the entry-level 316s to 238hp in the M3 Sport Evo The E30 was the first 3 Series to come as a four-door saloon, convertible and it was the first M3 sports car. Complete timeline of BMW 3 Series (E30) Sedan models and generations, with photos, specs reference and production years.
The BMW E30 platform was the basis for the 1981 through 1991 BMW 3-Series entry-level luxury car / compact executive car. It was the successor of the BMW E21 in 1982 and was replaced by the BMW E36 in 1992. BMW E30 318i 4 door pre facelift with chrome bumpers BMW E30 4-door pre facelift, rear view with chrome bumpers The first facelift was made in September 1985.
The most obvious external innovation was the change in the front apron, which was now made in one piece and vertically. The front spoiler, which is slightly shaped downwards in the direction of travel, was finally pulled further under. BMW E30 is a platform on which are based models from BMW 3-er, M3 and Alpina's C1, C2, B3 and B6.
The first E30s were produced in December 1981 (323i models only), but the numbers are not known. For 12 years in pipeline are manufactured more than 2,400,000 units using E30 platform. Production of the E30 began to wind down in 1990, due to the introduction of the E36 3 Series E30 coupé models.
The BMW E30 is a compact executive car with rear-wheel-drive layout (except the all-wheel-drive 325iX) produced by BMW. The BMW M3 was first introduced on the E30 platform. The E30 was released in 1982 and replaced by the BMW E36 in 1990.
BMW continued to produce the cabriolet (convertible) E30 well into 1993 and the touring until 1994. The cars were powered by a range of inline 4.