The BMW 3 Series E21 was the first generation of a model that became one of the backbones of the Bavarian brand. It successfully replaced the 02 series starting in 1975. The flagship model of the range was the 323i, marketed from February 1978. The 323i was equipped with the M20B23 engine, an in-line 6 cylinder with a displacement of 2315cc and 143 horsepower. In August 1979, the 323i, like all the other 3 series, was also the subject of the MY80 restyling. Production of the 323i E21 stopped in December 1982, about a year before the E21 finally left the scene, replaced by the E30.