It was a hit in Germany but not in America.
The Bavarian brand made the first BMW 1 Series hot hatch in the 90s.
What is it?
Meet the BMW 3 Series Hatchback. Also known as the 3 Series Compact in Europe, the 3 Series Hatchback. This is the hatchback/liftback version 3 Series. It was made in two generations.
It was made when and where?
The 3 Series Hatch/Compact was built by the German automaker and sold more than 400,000 units worldwide between 1993 and 2004.
Technical information
The 3 Series E36 was the basis of the first generation model. It was actually identical to the coupe, sedan, and wagon versions, from the front bumper up to the A-pillar. You could choose from four four-cylinder engines or one six-cylinder engine. All sent power to the rear wheels via manual or automatic transmissions.
In 2000, the second generation was introduced as part of 3 Series E46. It featured more six-cylinder engines and a 2.0-liter diesel engine with 150 horsepower (110kW).
It was so bad!
It all depends on how you see it. It will be a regular, everyday hatchback that you’ll love. If you view it as a sports car, you will not be satisfied with your decision. What’s the problem? It was designed to be a hot hatch…
The 3 Series hatch was capable of modern engines that produce up to 170 horsepower (127kilowatts) but was not a fun car to drive due to its suspension. The MacPherson Strut design was used on the front axle, while the rear suspension utilized the semi-trailing arm layout from the E30 models. It was criticized by the automotive press for its handling in sharp corners.
It was ugly, we hate to admit it. The model had distorted proportions, dull factory wheel designs, and a short rear overhang. The second generation model made things worse. The front ended featured a distinct, but boring design.
The 3 Series Compact was launched shortly after receiving a five-door variant. This car was not sold, and BMW cancelled the project because of its low initial sales compared to the coupe and sedan.
After a few months, the car was a popular choice on the European market. Sales rose significantly. BMW decided to export the model to America, where it was introduced in 1995 under the 318ti. The liftback body design was not popular in North America and sales were stopped after four years.
We are not all in agreement
The 3 Series Hatchback/Compact may not be a true sports car. It was the catalyst for the 1 Series hatch which is one of the most popular BMW models today. The 3 Series hatch was not only unique, but it was also the first model to feature a front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout and six-cylinder engines.