Positioning:
Flagship luxury sedan, setting benchmarks in performance, comfort, and technology for its era.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac Eldorado, Lincoln Continental.
Design Philosophy:
"The Ultimate Driving Machine" applied to a large luxury sedan, blending performance with refinement.
Innovation:
Introduced advanced features for its time, including digital engine electronics and sophisticated suspension.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emission control.
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmission service, repair, diagnostics, and adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Propeller shaft, driveshaft, differential, axle, suspension systems, and wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, component replacement, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Steering column, power steering system, diagnostics and repair.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring schematics, component testing, diagnostics, multiplex/CAN communication.
Bodywork:
Exterior and interior trim, doors, windows, mirrors, seats, hood, panel repair, and alignment.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system diagnostics, repair, and refrigerant handling.
Restraint Systems:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), seat belts, and associated components.
Driver Controls:
Cruise control, engine immobilizer, wipers, washer system, door locks, horns, instrument panel.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical, electrical, and body components.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.
Adjustments:
Carburetor, ignition timing, valve clearance, and clutch adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive; suitable for dealership technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Searchability:
Searchable text within PDF
Printability:
All pages printable with high detail
Image Zoom:
Images can be enlarged and printed in higher detail
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF - user prints and binds as needed)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF - user chooses paper type)
Engine Options:
Inline-6 (M30 engine family)
Engine Displacement Base:
3.2 Liters (e.g., 733i)
Engine Displacement Common:
3.3 Liters (e.g., 733i)
Engine Configuration:
SOHC Inline-6
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 190-215 hp (depending on specific engine variant and market)
Torque Range:
Approximately 210-235 lb-ft (depending on specific engine variant and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection (depending on specific year/model)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual (less common)
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed or 4-speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Automatic Features:
Optional Sport mode on some automatic transmissions.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 116.5 inches (2960 mm)
Length:
Approx. 199.2 inches (5060 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.9 inches (1800 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3600-3900 lbs (1630-1770 kg), varies by model and equipment
Era Safety Standards:
Designed to meet 1970s safety standards; includes features like crumple zones and safety door beams.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available on later E23 models.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, lap belts for rear passengers.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing steering column.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with premium speaker options.
Instrument Panel:
Digital engine electronics diagnostics, trip computer (optional on some models), comprehensive analog gauges.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional on most models.
Engine Management:
Early electronic fuel injection and ignition systems, providing improved performance and efficiency over carbureted predecessors.
Multiplex Can:
Mentioned in manual coverage, indicating early implementation of multiplexed wiring systems for reduced complexity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Major Tune Up:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), including spark plugs, distributor cap/rotor, fuel filter.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (BMW specified or equivalent), typically 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (verify specific ZF transmission requirements)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Common Problems:
Fuel line deterioration, cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator), distributor wear, fuel injector issues, rust (wheel arches, rockers), aging electrical connectors, climate control blower motor failure.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection and replacement of rubber hoses and seals, monitoring of cooling system, cleaning of electrical contacts.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and luxury.
E23 Introduction:
First generation of the BMW 7 Series, replacing the E3 sedan. Launched in 1977 for the 1977 model year, with 1978 being an early production year.
E23 Facelift:
Received updates throughout its production run (1977-1986), including engine upgrades and feature enhancements.
Production Years:
1977-1986
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
