BMW 3 Series (E21)

BMW 3 Series (E21)
Overview
Model code	E21
Production	June 1975 – December 1983[1]
Model years	1977–1983 (North America)
Assembly	West Germany: Munich
Designer	Paul Bracq
Body and chassis
Class	Compact executive (D)
Body style	2-door coupe 2-door convertible
Layout	Rear-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine	1.6–2.0 L M10 I4 2.0–2.3 L M20 I6
Transmission	4-speed manual 5-speed manual 3-speed ZF 3HP automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,563 mm (100.9 in)
Length	4,355 mm (171.5 in) Except US:[2] 4,508 mm (177.5 in)
Width	1,610 mm (63.4 in)
Height	1,380 mm (54.3 in)
Curb weight	1,020–1,180 kg (2,250–2,600 lb)[3][4]
Chronology
Predecessor	BMW 02 Series
Successor	BMW 3 Series (E30)

The BMW E21 is the first generation of the BMW 3 Series, a range of compact executive cars. The E21 was produced from June 1975 to December 1983 and replaced the BMW 02 Series. The series was exclusively built in a two-door coupé body style (except for convertibles made by Baur). Contrary to its predecessor, a 'Touring' body with a sloped rear hatch was no longer offered.

Initial models were produced with carburetted four-cylinder petrol engines of 1.6 L, 1.8 L, and 2.0 L. Fuel-injection was introduced in late 1975 on the 320i – but in 1977, a carburetted inline 6-cylinder engine replaced both the 320 and 320i models,^[5] while a detuned version of the four-cylinder injection went on sale in the United States. In 1978, the 3-series received its first fuel-injected six-cylinder in the 323i as a flagship performance model; and in 1981, a bottom end detuned 1.6 L was offered in the 315.

The cabriolet body style, manufactured by Baur, was produced from 1978 to 1981, with all available engines.

There was no BMW M3 model for the E21 generation, but several limited edition models were produced based on the model with the largest engine, the six-cylinder 323i.^[6][7]

The E21 was replaced by the E30 3 Series in 1982.