Target Audience:
Discerning drivers valuing performance, luxury, and build quality
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100, Volvo 740, Jaguar XJ
Bmw Advantage:
Sportier driving dynamics, advanced engineering for its time, solid build quality
Design Philosophy:
Functionality, driver focus, aerodynamic efficiency
Powertrain Emphasis:
Inline-four engines offering a balance of efficiency and performance
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition system, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnosis
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, driveshafts
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission overhaul, valve body, torque converter, cooler lines
Suspension:
Front struts, rear trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel bearings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column
Brakes:
Front discs, rear drums (or discs depending on variant), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, pipes
Bodywork And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-ups, belt inspection
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common fault identification, electrical system diagnosis
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing, wiring continuity checks, diagnostic codes (where applicable)
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing virtually all serviceable parts
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque values, clearances, measurements for critical components
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic servicing to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and detailed electrical diagnostics
Engine Code 518:
M10 (various iterations)
Engine Code 518I:
M10 (with fuel injection)
Displacement 518:
1.8 Liters (approx. 1766 cc)
Displacement 518I:
1.8 Liters (approx. 1766 cc)
Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 valves
Horsepower 518:
Approx. 90-100 hp (DIN)
Horsepower 518I:
Approx. 105-115 hp (DIN)
Torque 518:
Approx. 130-140 Nm (DIN)
Torque 518I:
Approx. 155-165 Nm (DIN)
518 Carbureted:
Yes (e.g., Solex or Pierburg carburetor)
518I Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection
Required:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91+)
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight Manual Approx:
1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs)
Curb Weight Automatic Approx:
1350-1450 kg (2976-3197 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:
1800-1900 kg (3968-4189 lbs)
Historical Ratings Era:
Safety standards of the mid-1980s; generally considered robust but lacking modern electronic aids.
Standard:
Four-wheel disc brakes (later models or optional on some), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on later E28 models, but likely rare on 518/518i.
Standard:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones, padded dashboard and steering wheel, three-point seatbelts (front), two-point seatbelts (rear, typically)
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles) or annually, depending on usage and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 40,000 km (12,000 - 24,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-36,000 miles)
Engine Oil:
API SG/SF or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 15W-40, 10W-40, or 5W-30 (depending on climate and specific engine requirements, consult manual for exact specs).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent, consult manual for exact BMW specification).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW ATF (or compatible hydraulic fluid).
Engine M10:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan, timing chain wear (though typically robust), coolant leaks from hoses and thermostat housing.
Fuel System:
Carburetor issues (if equipped) requiring adjustment/rebuild, aging fuel lines, weak fuel pumps.
Electrical System:
Aging wiring harness can lead to intermittent issues, failing headlight relays, dashboard warning light inconsistencies.
Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, worn shock absorbers, strut mount deterioration.
Rust:
Common on wheel arches, rocker panels, and around the sunroof (if equipped).
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' established by earlier generations.
E28 Introduction:
Introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12 5 Series.
E28 Positioning:
Continued BMW's focus on performance and luxury in the executive sedan segment.
518 518I Role:
Represented the entry-level variants of the E28 range, offering BMW quality at a more accessible price point.
Production Years E28:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Thailand, Mexico
