BMW 3 Series Cabriolet (E36) 1993-1999 Photos, engines & full specs

BMW introduced the third generation of the 3 Series in 1990 and made it available in more shapes and sizes than before, but it delayed the introduction of the drop-top version until 1993.

It might be said that BMW was somehow surprised by customers' demands for a premium convertible, and that's why it delayed it. Whatever the reasons, in 1993, the German carmaker brought it to the market, and the result was far beyond expectations.

The drop-top version was clearly inspired by the E36's coupe, with which it shared the front fascia and part of the body panels. Its squared-looking headlights were in total opposition with the quad-round headlamp design of its predecessor, the E30. At the back, the carmaker extended the taillights on the trunk lid but took care to keep the brake lights only on the quarter panel. From its sides, the lack of the B-pillar made the car look more like a roadster than a four-door convertible.

Unlike its predecessor, the E30 cabriolet, the E36 offered more room in the back for a couple of passengers, even though they had to be careful with their feet since the legroom was not that ample. For short trips, though, it was fine. At the front, depending on the options, the carmaker placed regular bucket seats or high-bolstered ones for sportier versions. But still, the carmaker didn't offer the option of a power-operated roof.

Under the hood, the carmaker installed a sluggish 1.8-liter powerplant for the base version but compensated with the rest of the range. Moreover, a five-speed automatic was available and contributed to the sports factor.