BMW Welt Munich - Museum Tour

2013 Special exhibit: History of the 3 series

In 2013, BMW Welt and the BMW Museum in Munich offered a fascinating look into the evolution of the iconic BMW 3 Series as part of its broader “House of the Series” exhibition, a tribute to BMW’s most enduring and influential models. For BMW enthusiasts, this exhibit was a deep dive into the history, impact, and design ethos that the 3 Series has embodied since its debut.

The museum took visitors on a journey through each generation of the 3 Series, highlighting its growth from a humble compact sedan in 1975 to a dynamic and versatile series with global influence. The exhibit showcased several models and iterations, allowing guests to view the evolution of key design elements like the kidney grille, the iconic Hofmeister kink, and each model's technological advancements. Special attention was given to the engineering prowess behind these cars, tracing how BMW integrated innovative technology, performance, and design over time. Guests could see the progress in safety, aerodynamics, and fuel efficiency, reflecting how BMW has continually adapted to changing times and customer expectations​..

The experience was both visually and historically enriching, with detailed displays of each 3 Series model, interactive media, and historical documents detailing BMW’s vision for each model. Beyond just the cars, the exhibit captured the brand's dedication to creating a “driver’s car,” emphasizing the joy and precision of the driving experience. Special exhibits also celebrated the legacy of the M3, exploring how the motorsport-inspired models solidified the 3 Series’ reputation as a performance powerhouse on the road and racetrack alike​.

This display at BMW Welt provided a must-see homage to a vehicle series that redefined the compact luxury segment and left a lasting legacy in the automotive world. It’s an exhibit that many enthusiasts still fondly recall, celebrating the craftsmanship and vision that make the BMW 3 Series legendary.