UPWARDLY MOBILE
BMW 3-SERIES
When BMW’s second-generation ‘E30’ 3-Series was launched in late 1982, it represented a significant improvement over the original ‘E21’ model without diluting the essential BMW character. Over its ten year life (12 if you take the last Touring estates into account) the E30 was gradually improved but as popular as it was, you do wonder if it was the BMW badge that carried it some of the way.
Sparsely equipped, not overly generous on rear legroom and with arm-twirling steering – over four turns lock to lock – as well as a chassis that still wasn’t all that great, the E30 was the final manifestation of the old 2002. On the upside was that BMW character, decent engines, a quick 325i and solid assembly quality. Excellent vision and being easy to drive also helped.
The third generation, codenamed E36 began production in
