🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

316 / 316i

Year:

1987

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Codes:

M10 (316), M40 (316i - early production)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact executive sedan/coupe.

Positioning:

Entry-level model in BMW's highly regarded 3 Series (E30) lineup, known for sporty handling and build quality.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra, Volvo 240.

Handling:

Renowned 'Ultimate Driving Machine' characteristics with excellent chassis balance and responsive steering.

Durability:

Built to last with solid engineering and high-quality materials, characteristic of BMW's reputation.

Design:

Iconic E30 design, considered a classic by many automotive enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for BMW 316 and 316i models from 1987.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by original manufacturer publication; typically 500+ pages for a complete factory manual.

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English (common for international markets)

Format:

Digital (PDF) or Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic for 316i), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 240/260) and automatic transmission (ZF 3HP22) overhaul, repair, fluid changes, and diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, steering linkage, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (depending on specific E30 variant), master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, parking brake system.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, gauges, instrumentation, fuses, relays, ignition switch, power windows (if equipped).

Bodywork:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, hood and trunk latches, glass replacement, seals.

HVAC:

Heating and ventilation system components, blower motor, heater core, ducting.

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, belt inspection and replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common engine performance issues, electrical faults, and starting problems.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension work, and brake system repairs.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications for all major fasteners, engine timing settings, valve clearances, wheel alignment parameters, fluid capacities, and component clearances.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF, typically searchable and printable.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (for digital); Professional binding for printed versions (e.g., comb-bound, perfect bound).

Paper Type:

N/A (for digital); High-quality, durable paper stock for printed manuals.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

316 Engine:

BMW M10 inline-4 cylinder, SOHC, 1.6-liter (1573 cc), Carbureted (Solex or Pierburg).

316I Engine:

BMW M40 inline-4 cylinder, DOHC, 1.6-liter (1573 cc), Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection.

316 Horsepower:

Approx. 90 PS (89 hp, 66 kW) at 5800 rpm.

316 Torque:

Approx. 130 Nm (96 lb-ft) at 3200 rpm.

316I Horsepower:

Approx. 102 PS (101 hp, 75 kW) at 5800 rpm.

316I Torque:

Approx. 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 4500 rpm.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91 or higher).

Fuel Delivery 316:

Single downdraft carburetor (e.g., Solex 40 ADDHE or Pierburg 2B).

Fuel Delivery 316I:

Bosch LE-Jetronic or L-Jetronic fuel injection system.

Ignition System:

Breakerless electronic ignition (Bosch).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission (Getrag).

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transmission (ZF 3HP22).

Clutch:

Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation.

Final Drive:

Rear-wheel drive with open differential.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4325 mm (170.3 in) for Sedan.

Width:

Approx. 1640 mm (64.6 in).

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in) for Sedan.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in).

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 1120-1150 kg (2470-2535 lbs).

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 1150-1180 kg (2535-2601 lbs).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

E30 platform tested by various agencies; detailed results may vary by region and specific test. Generally performed well for its era.

Steering:

Recirculating ball power steering (optional or standard depending on market/spec).

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, rear drums or discs; ABS was optional on later E30s but less common on base 316/316i models.

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point inertia reel seatbelts, rear lap belts.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell with front and rear crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-fitted radio/cassette player (e.g., Blaupunkt, Grundig), often with basic AM/FM tuning and pre-outs for amplifiers. Speaker systems were typically modest.

ABS:

Optional on some later E30 models, but not standard on most 316/316i variants.

Connectivity Features:

N/A - No factory connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for exact spec).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 20,000-40,000 km (12,000-25,000 miles), depending on plug type.

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3; Viscosity: 10W-40, 15W-40, or 10W-30 depending on climate (consult manual). Capacity: Approx. 4.5 liters.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant. Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 7.5 liters.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Capacity: Approx. 1 liter.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.2 liters.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Capacity: Approx. 3.5 liters (dry fill).

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.2 liters.

Rust:

Prone to rust in common E30 areas: wheel arches, rocker panels, strut towers, battery tray, trunk floor.

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pumps and thermostats can fail.

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings (RTABs), ball joints, and tie rod ends are common, leading to imprecise handling and alignment issues.

Electrical:

Dashboard warning lights can be finicky, fuel pump relays, fuse box corrosion, and aging wiring harnesses.

Engine M40:

Timing chain guides can wear and fail, leading to significant engine damage if not addressed proactively. Some early M40s used a single-row timing chain, later revised to a double-row.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW, a German manufacturer, has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty and well-engineered luxury vehicles since its inception.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 chassis was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the E21 3 Series. It significantly expanded BMW's market appeal and established the benchmark for compact sports sedans.

316 316I Positioning:

The 316 and 316i represented the entry-level offerings in the E30 lineup, providing access to BMW's driving dynamics and quality at a more accessible price point.

E30 Production Years:

1982-1994 (saloon, estate), 1983-1991 (coupe, convertible, touring).

E30 Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany, with some production in South Africa and assembly in other international locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 Reputation:

Consistently ranked by automotive publications as one of the best driver's cars and a modern classic. Celebrated for its balance, feedback, and build quality.