The BMW E36 is the third generation of BMW's compact executive automobile 3 Series, which was manufactured from 1990 to 2000 by the German automaker BMW. In subsequent years, the coupe, convertible, wagon, hatchback, and the uncommon four-door convertible were added to the lineup. The E36 was the first BMW 3 Series hatchback. It was also the first 3 Series with a six-speed manual transmission, a five-speed automatic transmission, and a four-cylinder diesel engine (in the 1996 M3). In comparison to previous generations of the 3 Series, the multi-link rear suspension was a significant improvement. It was not possible to have all-wheel drive.
The majority of BMW E36 owners have modified their cars or have considered doing so. The oldest E36s are nearly three decades old, and a slew of improvements and modifications have been developed expressly for this BMW.