Vehicle Segment:
Compact executive sedan/coupe
Brand Perception:
Known for sporty handling, driver engagement, and premium build quality.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and responsive steering.
Build Quality:
High-quality materials and construction, characteristic of BMW.
Engineering Philosophy:
Focus on driver-centric design and mechanical precision.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, overhaul, clutch service, driveshaft, differential.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering rack, power steering system.
Electrical System:
Complete electrical diagrams, wiring harnesses, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays, onboard computer diagnostics (limited for the era).
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, body sealing, chassis adjustments, alignment.
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system operation, components, and service.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical fault finding.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, etc.
Installation:
Component removal and installation procedures for all major systems.
Engine Diagnostics:
Advanced engine diagnostics, timing adjustments, fuel pressure testing, emissions control system.
Electrical Diagnostics:
In-depth electrical troubleshooting using wiring diagrams, multimeter usage, component testing.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive rebuild procedures for engines and transmissions, including torque specifications and tolerances.
Likely Format:
PDF (searchable text, printable)
Typical Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation
If Printed:
Likely perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use
If Printed:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects of service and repair as performed by authorized technicians.
Engine Code Family:
M10 / M40 (likely M10 for early 316i E30, potentially M40 later)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC (for M40) or SOHC (for M10)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (approx. 1766cc for M10, or 1795cc for M40)
Horsepower:
Approximately 105-115 hp (depending on specific engine variant and market)
Torque:
Approximately 150-160 Nm (111-118 lb-ft)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition System
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter (depending on market), secondary air injection (possible)
Body Styles:
2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, convertible, touring (wagon - less common for 316i)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Length:
Approximately 4325 mm (170.3 in)
Width:
Approximately 1640 mm (64.6 in)
Height:
Approximately 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1100-1250 kg (2425-2755 lbs), depending on body style and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Specific GVWR available in manual.
Trunk Capacity:
Sufficient for a compact executive sedan of its era, detailed in manual.
Crash Test Data:
Limited formalized crash test data available for this era and specific model, but generally considered safe for its time.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) may have been available.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts (front), lap belts (rear).
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and body construction.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, basic speaker system.
Display:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Warning lights.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system may be fitted.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards; basic radio antenna connection.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles) or 6-12 months, consult manual for exact recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 40,000 km (12,000 - 25,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
If equipped with M40 engine, timing belt replacement is critical (e.g., every 60,000 km or 4 years). M10 engines use a timing chain.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (consult manual for specific viscosity and API rating for the exact engine variant).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 - 4.5 liters (4.2 - 4.8 US quarts).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., BMW blue coolant or equivalent), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Rubber suspension bushings, coolant hoses, fuel pump, ignition components (spark plug wires, distributor cap/rotor), blower motor resistor.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, strut towers, rear valence.
Engine Specific Issues:
M10 engine can be robust but may develop oil leaks. M40 engine timing belt failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building performance-oriented, driver-focused vehicles.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation replaced the E21 3 Series and was produced from 1982 to 1994, renowned for its iconic design and driving dynamics.
316I Positioning:
The 316i represented an entry-level model in the 3 Series lineup, offering BMW quality and driving experience at a more accessible price point.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany
Production Years:
E30 production spanned 1982-1994. The 316i was produced within this timeframe, with 1986 being a key model year.
