Fifty Years of Automotive Finesse

The BMW 3 Series: a Look Back over an Extraordinary History

Among the key milestones along the way have been its success in pioneering a new category of vehicle, establishing itself as the embodiment of driving pleasure in its segment, and becoming the world’s top-selling premium car.

The model range was launched 50 years ago, in 1975, to replace the already legendary BMW 2000 series and is now in its seventh iteration. The BMW 3 Series represents an expression of automotive joy, with sporty, agile handling, enthusiasm for innovative technology, and appreciation of premium quality.

First unveiled at the 1975 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, the BMW 3 Series has since developed into both the brand’s most successful model range and an international bestseller. And that makes the 3 Series a highly effective global ambassador for BMW’s core attributes.

Cultivation of Hallmark BMW Qualities 

Again and again, the introduction of trailblazing technological innovations in the BMW 3 Series has also broken new ground in the midsize class in general. Moreover, for five decades now, the BMW 3 Series has led the way with new vehicle concepts that have expanded the brand’s model line-up and injected fresh ideas into the segment as a whole.

The underlying character of the BMW 3 Series endures from generation to generation, complemented by the addition of new technological advances. Its design has likewise been shaped by a characteristic BMW sense of continuity and evolution. Indeed, throughout the model range’s history, its striking front end with twin circular headlights and familiar BMW kidney grille, the dynamic lines of the car’s flanks, and the powerful rear end has always been quick to catch the eye.

As for the interior, the unmistakable driver-focussed cabin design established itself as a key element. The sporty, commanding character of its engines, and the resultant performance set the BMW 3 Series apart from its competitors, as did the rear-wheel drive concept responsible for the hallmark driving pleasure delivered by this new model series.

Strong South African Connection

This early dedication to sporting ability also contributed to a South African story steeped in legend. The second to sixth generations of the BMW 3 Series were produced at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn, outside Pretoria, which led to the development of certain South Africa-only versions that remain coveted around the world. The BMW 3 Series was the model first exported from South Africa in 1994.

More than 20 million BMW 3 Series vehicles have been sold since 1975 and to celebrate its 50-year milestone, 50 units of the 50 Jahre Edition for South Africa are being released.

Based on the latest, seventh generation of the BMW 3 Series, the special 320i and M340i xDrive models are inspired by iconic BMW 3 Series from the past. To honour the best-selling BMW yet, signature paint finishes of bygone BMW 3 Series’ have been revived to give these models their most distinctive feature. Look out for the Aegean Blue and British Racing Green paint finishes from the third generation, Stratus Grey from the fourth generation, and the sixth generation’s Lime Rock Grey.

The cabin benefits from a few stand-out features, too. The British Racing Green 320i, in particular, receives a striking perforated Sensatec finish in Cognac, while all M340i xDrive cabins have black Vernasca leather with blue contrast stitching. Alongside the standard M Sport package with black high-gloss accents, all models benefit from aluminium interior trim and the CraftedClarity cut glass element for the gear selector.

Furthermore, a selection of alternative 19-inch wheels is available, too. Other standard features incorporated into the BMW 50 Jahre Edition for South Africa include Comfort Access, Park Assist Plus, Adaptive M suspension, Driving Assist Professional and Harmon/Kardon surround sound.

Pricing:

Current Price, including VAT and CO2 tax, are:

BMW 320i 50 Jahre Edition – R1,067,730.80

BMW M340i xDrive 50 Jahre Edition – R1,422,607.30