The first generation of the BMW 3 Series is known as the E21. Introduced for the 1976 model year, the E21 was the first in a long line of compact luxury cars, and was offered from the factory in a two door sedan body style, although coachbuilt convertibles were produced by Baur. This generation of cars was only available in rear wheel drive, and featured both inline four and inline six engines. Variants built included the 320, 320i, 316, 318, 320is, 315, 318i, 320/6, and 323i. Many E21 cars were also converted into Race Cars. The E21 BMW 3 Series was in production until 1983 when it was replaced by the E30 BMW 3 Series.