BMW E21 is the first generation of the BMW 3 Series compact executive car, produced by the German automaker BMW from 1975 to 1981. Most E21s were sold as 2-door compact sedans, however a Baur cabriolet was also available. Initially, the E21 was powered by a 4-cylinder engine, with a straight-6 engine added to the line-up in 1977. The wedge shape of the two-door model was distinctive, extending all the way to the unusually high rear end.