Independent BMW E30 knowledge base · 1982—1994

Body styles & special editions

BMW E30 models

Compare the body styles, rare derivatives and factory specials that turned one 3 Series generation into a remarkably broad family.

How to use this section

Choose the body style or special version first, then use the linked engine and buying guides to verify the exact car. Production dates, equipment and specifications can differ by market; a badge or registration year alone is not enough to identify an E30.

Compare the page with the chassis number, production label, option history and physical details of the car in front of you. The model pages describe the original range and inspection priorities; they do not authenticate a particular vehicle. Use the linked technical articles to assess condition and the engine profiles to confirm service requirements before drawing conclusions about originality or value.

All entries9 all entries

1986—1991 · S14

M3

The homologation special that transformed the E30 into a touring-car benchmark.

Two-door

1982—1991 · 2 doors

Two-door

The light, direct foundation of the E30 range and the basis for the 318is and M3.

Four-door sedan

1983—1991 · 4 doors

Four-door sedan

Everyday practicality with the same balanced chassis and broad engine range.

Touring

1987—1994 · Estate

Touring

Max Reisböck’s after-hours idea became BMW’s first modern sporting estate.

Convertible

1985—1993 · Open

Convertible

BMW’s fully open E30, heavily reinforced and built beyond the saloon’s production life.

Baur TC2

1983—1991 · Coachbuilt

Baur TC2

A rare TopCabriolet that combines removable roof panels with fixed pillars.

325iX

1985—1991 · AWD

325iX

BMW’s first all-wheel-drive 3 Series, engineered around a rear-biased system.

325e eta

1983—1988 · M20B27

325e eta

A long-stroke six-cylinder tuned for low-rev torque and real-world economy.

Alpina E30

C1 · C2 · B3 · B6

Alpina E30

Torque-rich, high-speed interpretations built in Buchloe with their own identity.