The E36 series was the third of the 3 Series car manufacturer BMW. It was founded in 1990 as successor to the E30 series are presented and a sedan built by 1998. With the technology of the E36 were the BMW Compact and Z3 models were built. From 1998, the E36 then successively by the successor model E46 replaced. 2000, the Compact and in 2002 the Z3 set.

The diversity of E30 variants was largely at the E36 continued, but there were no more all-wheel drive, which again was offered with the E46. Also available was a sporty variant with powerful 6-cylinder engine (BMW M3).

From autumn 1997 there were for the E36 also side airbags.