Understanding Platform Codes - Why is a BMW 3 Series sometimes called an E46?
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The listing below describes some of the platforms and models mentioned in Memoirs of a Hack Mechanic and is by no means exhaustive.
BMW
BMW Vintage (precedes current series designations)
| Year Range | Platform Code | Model Designation(s) | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1968 - 1975 | Â | 2002 |
Rob's first BMW - a 1971 2002 |
| 1968 - 1975 | E9 | 3.0CS 2800CS |
Rob Siegel's 1973 BMW 3.0CSi |
BMW 3 Series
| Year Range | Platform Code | Model Designation(s) | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1984 - 1991 | E30 | 318i 325e M3Â |
Rob didn't own this exact E30 BMW convertible, but he did own a |
| 1992 - 1999 | E36 | 318i 320i 323i 325i 328i M3Â |
 |
| 1999 - 2006 | E46 | 323ci 325ci 328ci 330ci M3Â | Â
 |
| Â | Â | Â | Â |
BMW Z1
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| Year Range | Platform Code | Model Designation(s) | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 - 1991 | Â | Z1 |
Steve Diamond's 1989 BMW Z1 - Rob did a pre-purchase inspection on this car for Steve |
| Â | Â | Â | Â |
BMW Z3
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| Year Range | Platform Code | Model Designation(s) | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 - 2002 | Â | Z3 |
Rob's middle son Kyle and his prom date posing in front of Rob's 1999 BMW Z3M Coupe. |
| Â | Â | Â | Â |
BMW 5 Series
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| Year Range | Platform Code | Model Designation(s) | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 - 2003 | E39 | 525i 528i 530i 540i M5 | Â |
| Â | Â | Â | Â |
| Â | Â | Â | Â |
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Related
Online Appendix - Memoirs of a Hack Mechanic - Rob Siegel
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