The BMW E36 is the third generation of the 3 Series compact executive cars produced by BMW. It was introduced in late 1990 (as a 1991 model) for Europe and in late 1991 (as a 1992 model) for US and Canada. It was the successor to the E30 3 Series and was eventually replaced by the E46 3 Series in 1998, though E36 coupes were still produced for the 1999 model year. The E36 experienced enormous success in the market. It laid strong foundations for the success that the BMW E46 experienced in subsequent years.