BMW E30

Following World War II, German automobile and motorcycle manufacturing company BMW began manufacturing mid-sized family cars as well. The company developed a highly-advanced platform, the E30, as a base for manufacturing the BMW 3 Series entry-level luxury cars. This set of technological and mechanical improvements remained the basis since 1982 through 1991, also resulting in the introduction of compact executive cars from BMW.

Later on, this platform led to the development and further improvements in the highly-acclaimed BMW M3. The same model was also launched, with a wider front suspension and E30 325i drivetrain, as the BMW Z1 roadster edition. The entire E30 3-Series sported four body styles: a four door saloon, a two door coach, a five door estate (Touring Edition) and a two door convertible. A customized, stylish convertible by Baur, labelled as the Cabrio, was also launched before the company introduced the 325ix Sport in 1988. This model, featuring an all-wheel drive, was in production till 1992.

The BMW E30 platform was a successor to the BMW E21, paving the way for the BMW engineers to develop another marvel in mechanical engineering – the BMW E36 engine platform. The original M3 (E30) established itself as a successful racing car by winning numerous races, including the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft, the European Touring Car Championship, and the world title in 1987. For car enthusiasts, the BMW E30 chassis and engine tuning can be modified or upgraded as per requirements, using special body kits and custom engine performance upgrade kits.