The BMW 3 Series has cultivated a legendary reputation over its nearly 50-year production run, defining its segment as a benchmark for driving dynamics and performance.

Certain models, however, have stood out as extraordinary cars with class-leading acceleration, track-bred credentials, and short production runs. These are the models with future classic credentials.

A short history of the BMW 3 Series

The 3 Series is one of BMW’s longest-running production models, debuting in 1975 with the first generation E21 with 4-cylinder engines, but soon added fuel-injected models and 6-cylinders by 1977 to create incredible performance saloons.

The second-gen E30 arrived in 1982 with new 4-door and convertible models, plus BMW’s first diesel engine. In the 1990s, the E36 brought the first 6-speed manual transmission and a new straight-6 M3 engine.

The E46 in 1997 had more technology, such as satellite navigation and LED taillights, and saw the return of all-wheel drive models. The 2000s E90 generation ushered in the first turbocharged petrol engine with the 335i in 2006. The M3 models also got a new V8 engine.

When the F30 came along in 2011, it split the coupe and convertible into the new 4 Series line. A plug-in hybrid 330e arrived in 2016, along with a 3-cylinder engine option. The current G20 debuted in 2018 with the first-ever M3 Touring wagon, a rare breed of tourer with every right to be a future classic in 20 years or so.

Models with future classic status

There are several 3 Series that are already classics, such as the original E21 and the E30 of the 80s. Any BMW M3 made before 2000 is also a classic, such as the 1996 M3, which was the first 3 Series to have a 6-speed manual gearbox.

As we look to more modern 3 Series, the ones with future classic potential are those with a unique engine or limited-edition status.

E46 M3 (2000-2006)

Powered by a 3.2 L i6 engine or a 4.0 L variant in the M3 GTR, the E46 M3 is teetering on the edge of classic status in 2023. A 0-62mph time of 5.1 seconds puts it way ahead of older M3s and retains a manual gearbox option. The special edition M3 CSL is even more special, a car bred to reduce weight and be more aerodynamic.

F30 335i/340i (2012-2019)

The F30 is considered by many to be the most complete 3 Series, offering the perfect combination of luxury and driver involvement. The 330i, 335i, and 340i are our favourite versions, powered by the N55B30M0 and N55B30M0 straight-six engines. With over 300hp, these models pack a punch at an affordable price.

F30 330d/335d (2012-2019)

The war against diesel doesn’t bother the ‘no smoke, no poke’ crowd, cementing the F30 330d/335d as potential future classics. The 335d is particularly potent, kicking out 308hp and a whopping 460 lb-ft of torque. The tuning potential of these cars is also off the charts, with a remap unlocking well over 550 lb-ft.

M3 F80 (2014-2019)

The M3 F80 is based on the F30 3 Series and comes in three distinct models – M3, M3 Comp, and M3 CS. The M3 Comp was produced from 2016-2020 with 444hp, while the M3 CS was produced from 2018 to 2020 with 453hp and lighter 3 Series bumpers & headlights. Both these models are future classics.

M3 G81 Touring (2020-present)

The M3 G81 is the first ever M3 Touring, giving it excellent future classic potential. The 3.0L S58B30T0 twin-turbo I6 engine is a brute, kicking out 503hp and 479 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed auto gearbox. Built to smash motorways and tracks, the M3 Touring is the dream car for many a family man.