BMW introduced their brand new E30 automobile platform for a new generation 3 Series in 1982.
Initially available in a 2-door coupe body style, the new 3 Series later received an all-new 4-door sedan configuration featuring some modern exterior lines and designed to challenge the forthcoming Mercedes 190E on the luxury compact segment. It benefited from the same suspension as its previous E21-based model and was fitted with a top-of-the-range 2.5L engine (featuring Bosch Motronic technology) delivering up to 171 hp. Its on-road performances were also impressive, as the new 3-Series sedan would top around 135 mph and reach 0-60 mph in 8.3 seconds.