Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Brand Perception:
Sporty, driver-focused, reliable, premium European.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Saab 900.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and precise steering, offering a 'driver's car' experience.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW solid construction, durable materials, and excellent longevity when properly maintained.
Design:
Iconic E30 design, characterized by clean lines, Hofmeister kink, and classic BMW kidney grille.
Powertrain:
Engine (M20B20), fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 260), automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22). Clutch, driveshaft, differential.
Chassis:
Suspension (front struts, rear semi-trailing arms), steering system, brake system (front discs, rear drums/discs), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instruments, HVAC controls, power windows, central locking.
Bodywork:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, seats, doors, glass, bumpers, body seals, corrosion prevention.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, belt inspections/replacement, brake fluid replacement, tune-ups.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, and electrical systems, reading error codes (if applicable for the era).
Repair:
Engine overhaul (head gasket, piston rings), transmission rebuild, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement.
Refurbishment Restoration:
Detailed instructions for component rebuilding, refurbishment of worn parts, bodywork repair, interior restoration, and system overhauls.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, tolerances, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC, 12-valve
Displacement:
1990 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
125 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
165 Nm @ 4300 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection (depending on specific market and build date).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based electronic ignition
Timing Belt Interval:
Recommended replacement every 40,000-60,000 miles or 4-5 years due to potential failure causing catastrophic engine damage.
Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2, Castrol Syntrans) - API GL-4 specification recommended.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III (consult manual for exact spec or successor).
Crash Testing:
While official NHTSA/IIHS ratings from this era are scarce, E30 models are generally considered robust for their time. Manual will likely detail structural integrity and safety systems.
ABS:
Available as an option on later E30 models, potentially including the 1989 320i, especially in certain markets.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag was an optional extra and not standard on all 1989 320i models. Passenger airbags were not available.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel front seatbelts, two-point rear lap belts (three-point optional for rear).
Construction:
Reinforced passenger safety cell, crumple zones front and rear, safety steering column.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months with synthetic oil, or as per specific oil quality and driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years to maintain system integrity.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended. Consult manual for specific BMW approvals (e.g., BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a blue or green color. BMW P/N 81 22 9 407 003 or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Failures:
Timing belt failure (critical!), coolant hoses and expansion tank degradation, fuel distributor diaphragm issues, fuel pump reliability, rust (especially in wheel arches, sills, battery tray), worn shock absorbers and bushings, intermittent electrical contacts (e.g., central locking, window regulators).
Key Checks:
Regular inspection of cooling system components, timing belt replacement at recommended intervals, rust prevention treatments, regular electrical system checks.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 chassis was introduced in 1982, succeeding the E21. The 320i variant was a core model in many global markets.
E30 Facelifts:
The 1989 model year would fall into the later phase of the E30's life, potentially benefiting from some minor revisions or updates compared to earlier models.
Production Years:
E30 range: 1982-1994. 320i specifically: Varied by market, but available through much of this period.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Munich, Germany, with some assembly in other BMW facilities globally.
