Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Era:
Classic Entry-Level Luxury Sport Sedan
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra, Opel Rekord.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's signature sporty handling, responsive steering, and balanced chassis.
Build Quality:
Solid construction typical of BMW engineering from this era.
Design:
Iconic E30 design by Claus Luthe, characterized by clean lines and a driver-focused cockpit.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, fuel injection system (Bosch LE-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, clutch system, driveshafts, differential.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS system (if equipped).
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, power steering system, steering rack.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrumentation, starter, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, electronic control units (ECUs).
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Maintenance:
Routine oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks, belt adjustments, brake pad/shoe replacement, coolant flushes.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all systems, fault code interpretation (if applicable).
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation for engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical, and body components.
Diagnostics:
Component testing, electrical circuit tracing, fuel system pressure testing, ignition timing adjustment.
Adjustment:
Carburetor idle speed and mixture (for earlier models), ignition timing, clutch free play, parking brake.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic preventative maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics and bodywork repairs.
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring diagrams, and component identification.
Engine Family:
M10 (4-cylinder, SOHC)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89 mm x 71 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (typical for early models)
Horsepower Peak:
99 hp @ 5800 rpm (DIN)
Torque Peak:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (DIN)
0 To 60 Mph:
Approx. 11.0-12.5 seconds (depending on transmission and body style)
Top Speed:
Approx. 180 km/h (112 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch LE-Jetronic fuel injection (later models may have Motronic).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
Premium (91+ RON recommended)
Crash Test Performance:
Generally good for its era, with a robust passenger safety cell. Specific official ratings are scarce for this period.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums (standard); optional ABS available on later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts (front), two-point lap belts (rear standard, three-point optional on rear).
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger compartment, crumple zones front and rear.
Radio:
Period-correct BMW Bavaria or Blaupunkt radios with analog tuning and cassette players were common. Speaker systems were basic.
Instrumentation:
Driver-focused dashboard with clear analog gauges: speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, oil temperature, and warning lights.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on later E30 models, primarily on higher-spec variants.
Connectivity Features:
None (pre-digital era connectivity)
Oil Change:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 24 months or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 API SG or higher. Capacity: Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF. Capacity: Approx. 8 liters (8.5 US quarts).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or Dexron III ATF.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Thermostat failures.
Fuel System:
Fuel pumps and pressure regulators can wear out. Injector seals can degrade.
Electrical:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses and connectors, particularly in engine bay and fuse box. Alternator and starter motor wear.
Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common due to age and mileage. Steering rack leaks.
Bodywork:
Rust is a significant concern, especially around wheel arches, rocker panels, and door bottoms. Heater core leaks.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, sporty automobiles with a focus on engineering excellence.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation replaced the E21 3 Series in 1982, introducing significant styling and engineering updates. The 316i was an entry-level variant designed to offer BMW's core driving experience at a more accessible price point.
E30 Updates:
The E30 platform saw various updates throughout its life, including chassis refinements, engine improvements, and the introduction of new body styles like the convertible and M3. The 316i primarily utilized the robust M10 engine, which had been a staple for BMW.
Production Years E30:
1982-1994 (globally, E30 Sedan/Coupe/Convertible ended earlier, Touring introduced later)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, USA (limited production).
