What exactly are BMW E codes?

E codes are chassis designation numbers used by BMW to distinguish different body styles. Any car that falls within an E code designation will have the same body style as all others within the same E designation. For example, a 1998 328i is an E36 (Left image below). A 1992 325i is also an E36 (right image below). Both cars look virtually identical but still vary in engine and slight design cues.

Guide to BMW Chassis Codes

(E Codes)

E9 1965-1975 2500-3.0 CS/i/L Coupes
E12 1972-1981 5 Series
E21 1975-1983 3 Series
E23 1977-1987 7 Series
E24 1977-1989 6 Series

E26 1978-1981 M1
E28 1982-1988 5 Series
E30 1984-1991 3 Series
E31 1990-1998 8 Series
E32 1987-1994 7 Series
E34 1989-1995 5 Series
E36 1992-1999 3 Series (coupe and convertible)
E36 1992-1998 3 Series sedan
E36/5 1994-1998 318ti (Compact)

E36/7 1997-2002 Z3
E38 1995-2001 7 Series
E39 1997-2003 5 Series
E46 1999-2005 3 series
E52 2000-2004 Z8
E53 2000-2006 X5 SAV
E60 2004+ 5 Series Sedan
E61 2004+ 5 Series Wagon
E63 2005+ 6 Series

E65/E66 2002+ 7 Series E70 2007+ X5 SAV
E82 2008+ 1 Series Coupe
E83 2003+ X3 SAV
E85 2003+ Z4 / MZ4 Roadster
E86 2006+ Z4 / MZ4 Coupe
E88 2008+ 1 Series Convertible
E90 2006+ 3 Series Sedan
E91 2006+ 3 Series Touring Wagon
E92 2007+ 3 Series Coupe
E93 2007+ 3 Series Convertible

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