BMW 318

The first BMW 3 series, based on the E21 platform, replaced the 2002 series in 1975. The initial line-up consisted of three models: the 316, 318 and 320. The 1975 E21 318 used the 1.8 L version of the BMW M10 four cylinder engine, which developed 98 bhp. In 1979, the BMW 318 was slightly revamped. The 318 was replaced by the 105 bhp 318i in the year 1980. In 1983, the E30 based 318i was launched, which utilized the same engine but was up rated to deliver 103 bhp. In 1988, the 318i was revised and featured a new 114 bhp M40 six cylinder engine. In 1989, a touring variant of the 318i was launched. Also introduced was the high-performance 318is, which featured a 16 valve engine that produced 136 bhp. A 318i convertible was introduced in 1987.

The E36 318i was introduced in late 1990. The 318i carried forth the same engine, while the 318is was up rated to 140 bhp. In 1993, the M40 cylinder was replaced by a new M43 four cylinder. In 1994, the 318i cabriolet and the 318ti compact were introduced. In 1995, the 318tds diesel compact was launched. The E46 318i debuted in 1998. The touring and coupe variants were launched in 2000, while the E46 318ti compact was launched in 2001. The 318i’s convertible variant, the 318Ci was unveiled in 2002 and received a new engine in 2004. The 318Ci was again up rated in 2007. Between 2001 and 2005, the 318d and 318td diesel models were also produced.