Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Brand Perception:
Known for sporty handling, build quality, and a premium driving experience.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Saab 900
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive platform, well-balanced chassis, praised for driver engagement.
Engineering:
Typical BMW engineering focus on reliability, performance, and driver-centric design.
Target Audience:
BMW owners, independent mechanics, DIY enthusiasts seeking to maintain or repair their E30 316/316i.
Powertrain:
Engine (M10 family), Fuel System (Carbureted and Injection), Ignition System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (if applicable), Driveshafts, Differential, Axles
Chassis And Suspension:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Semi-Trailing Arm), Steering System, Brakes (Front Discs, Rear Drums typical), Wheels and Tires
Electrical System:
Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System, Lighting System, Ignition System, Fuel Injection Control (Motronic for 'i' models), Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Power Accessories (Windows, Mirrors if equipped)
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning - if equipped)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Transmission Fluid), Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Fault Code Interpretation (for Motronic systems)
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine Rebuild Procedures, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Bodywork Repairs
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Component Dimensions, Electrical Resistance Values
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools required for certain repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine Code 316:
M10B18 (typically 1.8L carbureted)
Engine Code 316I:
M10B18 (typically 1.8L with Bosch Motronic fuel injection)
Horsepower 316:
Approx. 90-105 hp (market dependent)
Horsepower 316I:
Approx. 105 hp (market dependent)
Torque Nm 316:
Approx. 135-140 Nm
Torque Nm 316I:
Approx. 145 Nm
Fuel Delivery 316:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex 32/32 DIDTA or similar)
Fuel Delivery 316I:
Bosch LE-Jetronic or L-Jetronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91/95)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Body Styles:
2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, Convertible (later models)
Curb Weight Kg:
Approx. 1100-1200 kg (varies by body style and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
Typically around 1600-1700 kg
Crash Test Era:
NHTSA/Euro NCAP standards of the era; less stringent than modern standards.
Brakes Front:
Ventilated Disc Brakes (typical)
Brakes Rear:
Drum Brakes (typical)
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering (power assist optional/standard depending on market)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts (front), 2-point seatbelts (rear typical)
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones (front and rear)
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for exact recommendation)
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 20,000-30,000 miles (depending on type)
Timing Belt Chain:
M10 engine uses a timing chain, generally considered maintenance-free unless issues arise.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended (refer to manual for precise viscosity based on climate)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron II or III (ZF spec)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, sunroof drains, rear strut towers.
Cooling System Failures:
Cracked plastic expansion tanks, failed water pumps, radiator leaks.
Fuel System Issues Carb:
Carburetor wear, vacuum leaks, fuel pump issues.
Fuel System Issues Inj:
Faulty fuel injectors, weak fuel pumps, MAF/AFM sensor issues (depending on system).
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, rear trailing arm bushings.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded grounds, failing relays, instrument cluster issues, headlight switch failures.
Core Philosophy:
'The Ultimate Driving Machine'
E30 Generation Years:
1982-1994
E30 Significance:
Introduced a new era of BMW design, moving away from the angular Neue Klasse styling. Hugely successful globally.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, USA (SC)
Total E30 Production:
Over 2.1 million units across all body styles and variants.
Car And Driver 10Best:
While the E30 chassis as a whole was highly acclaimed and featured in 10Best lists, specific 316/316i variants may not have been individually highlighted as frequently as higher-performance models like the 325i.
Historical Road Tests:
Consistently praised for handling, build quality, and driver feel by automotive publications of the time.
