Did you know that the BMW 3 Series nameplate was this old?

BMW Group Malaysia has just began its celebrations for the 50th Anniversary of the iconic BMW 3 Series. Over seven generations, the BMW 3 Series has not only shaped the global identity of the BMW brand, but has also become an integral part of Malaysia’s automotive history since the 1970s.

The original BMW 3 Series, designed by Paul Bracq, debuted in 1975.

The 3 Series is undisputedly the most important sales drivers for BMW and one of the most appreciated models by the fan community. 50 years ago, in July 1975, the E21 celebrated its world premiere.

After the successful BMW 02 model series of the New Class, the new E21 further established and consolidated the concept of the sporty, 2-door sedan. The E21 was an entirely new car and bigger in size compared to the preceding 2002 model, although the difference meant an increase of just a few centimeters.

The model introduced BMW’s iconic driving dynamics, sporty performance, and driver-focused dashboard angle. The BMW 3 Series of this generation established many design elements, including the short front overhang, double kidney grilles, distinctive crease line, and Hofmeister kink, which endured in subsequent generations.

the E21 came with 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder petrol-fed powerplants. At the market launch in 1975, four different output versions were available for customers: the 316 with 1,573 cc displacement, the 318 with 1,766 cc displacement and 320 with 1,990 cc displacement and the range-topping 320i with the same displacement.

Whilst the first three variants used a carbureted engine, the 320i (as its name tells) was distinguished by the direct injection 4-cylinder unit that developed 92 kW /125 PS.

Meanwhile, Benjamin Nagel, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “The iconic 3 Series has earned an enduring place in the hearts of fans not only globally, but right here in Malaysia. Moving forward, the model will continue to evolve, effortlessly merging its rich legacy with the latest advancements that will define the future of driving.