BMW 3-series: Illustrated History Books & Guides

BMW E30 - The Complete Story

The E30 3 Series was the car that defined BMW more than any other during the 1980s, and it has gone on to become a much-loved modern classic. This book tells the full story of the cars from the time in 1976 when work first began on the successor to the original E21 3 Series.

This book features the story of how and why BMW designed their new compact E30 saloon for the 1980s; the styling, engineering and specification changes introduced over the lifetime of the model. There are full technical specifications, including paint and interior trim choices given along with a chapter on the special US variants.
Details of the M3 and the cars produced by the leading German tuners and finally, there is a chapter on buying and owning a BMW E30.

Product details

Author:	James Taylor
Details:	176 pages, 10.4 x 8.9 x 0.75 in (26.5 x 22.5 x 1.9 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	200 b&w and color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	The Crowood Press Ltd (GB, 2021)
Series:	The Complete Story
ISBN:	9781785008726

You & Your BMW 3-Series (E36 and E46) - Buying, enjoying, maintaining, modifying

The first BMW 3-Series appeared in 1975 and quickly became the reference point for medium-size saloon cars. This book focuses on the later E36 and E46 generations, which continued the brand's reputation for high comfort, solid build quality and advanced engineering.

The 3-Series is one of BMW's most adaptable designs. Its platform supported a wide range of models, including the Compact, Touring estate, coupé, convertible and the high-performance M3.
This fully illustrated volume is intended for owners and enthusiasts who want a clear overview of these cars.

The book presents the history of the E36 and E46, practical advice for buying, using and maintaining them, and guidance on possible upgrades. It also includes technical data, descriptions of the different versions and information on production figures. All content is in full colour.

Product details

Author:	Richard Dredge
Details:	160 pages, 10.8 x 8.5 x 0.51 in (27.5 x 21.5 x 1.3 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	160 color photos
Language:	English (technical dictionaries in 19 languages are available for free download here)
Publisher:	Haynes Publishing (GB, 2004)
ISBN:	9781859609767

BMW 3 Series Enthusiast's Companion

This is the only book you'll ever need about BMW's most popular line. It discusses the roots of the 3'er in the Neu Klasse and 2002, as well as renditions of the series itself, including E21, E30, E36 and the latest E46.
Various body styles and engines are represented, as are the many variations needed for BMW's diverse markets world-wide.

Jeremy Walton takes you from the inspirational 2002 through the early phases of development of the first of the 3 Series. Although he provides in depth coverage of the 320i that came to North America, extensive information is provided about the 316, 320 and 323i which made such an impact in Europe.

This Enthusiast's Companion tells you how to identify the various models and helps you to decide which engines, bodies, models and years are best suited to your needs.
Every page of every chapter of this book is intended to help you to better understand and enhance the enjoyment of your 3 Series BMW.

Features:
- Production history of the 3 Series
- American and European 3 Series race history
- 3 Series specifications
- Sales and production figures
- An easy-to-use Spotter's Guide
- Buyer's tips
- Hundreds of informative photos.

More information about Bentley Service Manuals

Product details

Author:	Jeremy Walton
Details:	378 pages, 9.8 x 8.25 x 0.94 in (25 x 21 x 2.4 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	350 photos and drawings
Language:	English
Publisher:	Bentley Publishers (USA, 2001)
Series:	Bentley Enthusiast's Companion
ISBN:	9780837602202

BMW 3-Series, 1992-1999 (MRP Autoguide)

BMW's 3-Series models came of age during the Nineties, setting new standards of luxury, performance and desirability.
This volume tells their story, offering a concise yet comprehensive reference to their design and development and to the many specification changes which have been applied to their engines, transmission and other mechanical units as well as to the cars' bodywork and interior equipment. Includes production performance figures.

Chapters:
- Third-generation 3-Series
- New technology
- Enter the 3-Series Coupe
- M3 flagship
- Cabriolets and Tourings
- Compact: BMW's first hatchback
- Blood relations: Z3 and 5-Series
- Rebirth in 1998: the E46 saloon
- First E46 variations: Coupe and Touring.
Appendices:
- Model introduction dates
- Technical specifications
- Performance figures.

Product details

Author:	Graham Robson
Details:	128 pages, 9 x 6.7 x 0.47 in (24 x 17 x 1.2 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	140 b&w and color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Motor Racing Publications Ltd (GB, 2000)
ISBN:	9781899870486

BMW 3 Series (1991-1997) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book featuring BMW 3 Series models from the years 1991-1997. Describes the BMW 316i, 318i, 320i, 325i, 325iSE, 318is Coupé, 318is, 325is, Alpina B2.5, Alpina B6, M3, 320i Vanos, 325i conv., .316i Compact, 318Ti Compact, 318 tds SE., .328i Touring, M3 Lightweight, 328i, M3 Evo., 318Ti Club Sport, 318 tds, 328i Sport, 323i SE325i Automatic and 325 tds Touring.

• The period articles, brought together from leading British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and engineering.
• Also driving impressions, original road tests, comparison tests, technical data, etc.

More information about Brooklands Portfolio books

Product details

Details:	172 pages, 10.6 x 7.9 x 0.47 in (27 x 20 x 1.2 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	300 photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Brooklands Books (GB, 1999)
Series:	Gold Portfolio
ISBN:	9781855204843

BMW 320, 323, 325 (Series 3: 6 cylinder cars) (1977-1990) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book featuring BMW 320 - 323 - 325 models from the years 1977-1990 (6 cylinders). Describes the BMW 320, 323i, 323i Cabrio, Hardy & Beck 323i, 335i, 320i, 325e, Alpina B6 2.8, .325i Turbo, 333i, 325i, 325es, 320i Cabrio, Alpina C2 2.7, MK Motorsport 2.7, .325i Cabrio, 325ix, 325i Sport, 325is, Hartge H35, Alpina C2 Touring, 325i Touring, Magard 325i, Alpina B6 3.5.

• The 54 period articles, brought together from leading British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and engineering.
• Also driving impressions, original road tests, comparison tests, technical data, etc.

More information about Brooklands Portfolio books

Product details

Details:	180 pages, 10.6 x 7.9 x 0.43 in (27 x 20 x 1.1 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	300 photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Brooklands Books (GB, 1992)
Series:	Gold Portfolio
ISBN:	9781855201521

BMW E36 - Der Kult-3er

NEW

Introduced in 1990 as the successor to the E30, the E36 quickly became a major success for BMW. Over ten years, more than 2.7 million units were sold in various body styles. Today, these models are sought-after classics, with the earliest ones already considered vintage, especially the high-performance M version.
This book provides a well-researched account of the E36's predecessors, development, and lasting success. It explores its significance from its origins to its role in today's club and tuning scene.
Contemporary press reports, striking images, and technical data showcase the E36 in all its diversity. Whether sedan, coupe, touring, or compact, this book is essential for all BMW E36 enthusiasts.

Product details

Author:	Roland Löwisch
Details:	128 pages, 11.8 x 8.25 x 0.71 in (30 x 21 x 1.8 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	many color photos
Language:	German
Publisher:	Heel-Verlag GmbH (D, 2025)
ISBN:	9783966647762

BMW 3er - Die Geschichte eines Welterfolgs

The BMW 3 Series set new standards in the mid-size class when it was introduced in 1975. From the start, it impressed with comfort, reliable engineering, and attractive design. With numerous innovations, more powerful engines, and various body styles and trims, it continued its success and remains one of BMW's best-selling models.

Halwart Schrader and Joachim Hack dedicate an extensive book of nearly 300 pages to this series, covering models from the E21 to the G20.

Pages of the book "BMW 3er - Die Geschichte eines Welterfolgs"

Product details

Author:	Halwart Schrader, Joachim Hack
Details:	272 pages, 10.6 x 9.25 x 0.83 in (27 x 23.5 x 2.1 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	593 b&w and color photos
Language:	German
Publisher:	Motorbuch Verlag (D, 2024)
ISBN:	9783613046825

BMW 3er-Reihe: Alle E30-Modelle (1982-1994) - Praxisratgeber Klassikerkauf

The BMW E30, launched on the market at the end of 1982, shone with a convincing concept that included a compact body with an elegant design paired with modern and powerful engines, classic rear-wheel drive and sporty chassis tuning - design features that would also characterize all subsequent 3 Series generations.
The Bavarian premium manufacturer also demonstrated a feel for the individual wishes of potential buyers: after the two-door model, a four-door variant was also offered from 1983; two years later, the full convertible and the legendary M3, which would later become the most successful touring car in sports history, followed. In 1987, the range reached its peak with the introduction of the Touring station wagon model.
Over 2.3 million buyers opted for the successful model from BMW at the time. Regardless of the body shape, today all BMW 3 Series E30s enjoy cult status and a loyal following.

BMW specialist Ralph Hosier has compiled the most important and helpful insider information for all 3 Series variants including the M3 for this guide.

This volume from the "Praxisratgeber Klassikerkauf" series is a compact guide and an indispensable tool for assessing the condition of a second generation 3 Series model for sale. Here, anyone interested will find important tips on what to look out for when buying to avoid a nasty surprise later. In addition, a detailed section with important addresses and contacts complements this valuable companion.

Product details

Author:	Ralph Hosier
Details:	64 pages, 8.25 x 5.9 in (21 x 15 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	100 color photos
Language:	German
Publisher:	Heel-Verlag GmbH (D, 2014)
Series:	Praxisratgeber Klassikerkauf
ISBN:	9783868528824