Each BMW body style is assigned a two digit number preceded by "E". The "E" stands for "Entwicklung", the German word for development.
In 1992, the new E36 Coupe was introduced. There were 3 models available; the 318is, 320i and 325i. The 318is featured a 16-valve, four-cylinder engine.
In 1993, the E36 Convertible was finally released. The M40 four-cylinder was replaced with a new, M43 four-cylinder engine. The 316i Coupe and the 325tds Sedan were also released.
In 1994, three E36 Compacts were introduced; the models 316i, 318ti, and the 318tds, with a four-cylinder diesel engine. The 316i and 318tds models were not available in the USA.
In 1995, the Touring or Sport Wagon model was introduced. The Touring was available as the 318i, 320i, 328i, 318tds and 325tds models. Only the 320i and 328i models were imported to the USA.
In 1996, a 318is Sedan was introduced, and finally, in 1997, a 316i Touring and a 323ti Compact were released. The E36 Convertible, the last of the model run, was discontinued in 1999.
The E46 is the body style for: 1999:- 323i, 328i
2000:- All 323 & 328s
2001+:- All 325s, 330s, and the M3 Coupe and M3 Convertible (There are no plans for an E46 M3 Sedan or Touring).
The E46 M3 started production in March 2001 and has 333 SAE horsepower.
