Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners seeking to maintain or repair their vehicles
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra
Vehicle Strengths:
Sporty handling, rear-wheel drive dynamics, build quality, reliable inline-four engine
Manual Value:
Essential for maintaining the longevity and performance of the E30 platform
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (including Motronic injection), exhaust system
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, clutch service, driveshaft, differential
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms), steering system, brakes (front discs, rear drums/discs), wheel alignment
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, accessory circuits, troubleshooting guides
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, heating and ventilation systems
Maintenance:
Regular service intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt adjustments, spark plug replacement
Repair:
Component overhaul, replacement of worn parts, engine rebuilds, transmission rebuilds, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) if applicable for the year, general diagnostic charts
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIYers.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text (if digitally produced)
Diagram Clarity:
High (typical of official BMW manuals)
Image Resolution:
Clear and detailed for repair procedures
Physical Binding:
Stapled, glued, or hardbound (depending on original publication)
Physical Paper:
Durable, often coated paper to resist shop environments
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1596 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 79.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 or 9.4:1 (depending on specific variant/market)
Valve Train:
SOHC with timing belt
Horsepower:
Approx. 75-90 PS (55-66 kW) at 5000-5600 rpm (market dependent)
Torque:
Approx. 120-130 Nm (89-96 lb-ft) at 2500-3250 rpm (market dependent)
Induction:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 95 recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW approved ethylene glycol coolant concentrate (e.g., BMW part #83 19 2 211 249, or equivalent G48/Si-Oat coolant)
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific seasonal recommendations)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter
Spark Plugs:
Bosch W7DC or equivalent
Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil
Automatic Fluid Type:
BMW LT-3 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), or Dexron II/III equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated diaphragm spring clutch
Length:
Approx. 4330 mm (170.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1200-1300 kg (2645-2866 lbs) depending on body style and options
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1675 kg (3692 lbs)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 425 Liters (15.0 cu ft) for sedan
Crash Testing:
No official NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings from this era readily available for this specific variant; relied on robust chassis design.
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (or optional discs on some models). ABS was optional on higher trims, likely not standard on 316i.
Traction Control:
Not typically equipped on the 316i model.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag was optional, not standard.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD changer
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional on this model, particularly for later E30s and higher trims.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (This era predates widespread digital connectivity features)
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 15,000 km (5,000 - 10,000 miles) or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Manual specifies based on service indicator.
Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 km (20,000 miles) or as needed based on condition.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 km (20,000 miles) for standard copper plugs, or longer for platinum/iridium if fitted.
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000 - 100,000 km (40,000 - 60,000 miles) or 5 years, whichever comes first. Crucial due to potential for catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (flush and replace every 2 years)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW approved ATF or Pentosin CHF 11 S (check manual)
Engine:
Head gasket leaks (M40 engines), timing belt tensioner failure, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan, idle control valve issues.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, shock absorber fatigue, trailing arm bushings (often referred to as the 'RTAB' issue on E30s).
Electrical:
Corroded electrical connectors, failing fuel pump relays, instrument cluster issues, window regulator failures.
Bodywork:
Rust in common areas like wheel arches, sills, and battery tray.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for sporty driving dynamics and quality engineering.
E30 Generation:
The E30 platform (1982-1994) was a significant success, known for its refined handling and diverse range of engines.
316I Positioning:
The 316i served as an entry-level model in many markets, offering the core BMW experience at a more accessible price point.
Production Years E30:
1982-1994
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Main Plant: Munich), South Africa, USA (CKD assembly)
