Historical Segment:
Compact executive/sports sedan, competing with Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80, and Volvo 240/740 series.
Key Differentiators:
Renowned BMW driving dynamics, rear-wheel drive bias, build quality, and sporty handling.
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordable entry into BMW ownership, robust engineering, engaging driving experience for its era.
Owner Benefit:
Empowers owners to perform complex repairs and maintenance, extending vehicle life and preserving value.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service Repair and Maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Restoration and Refurbishment Guidance
Estimated Pages:
500-1000 (typical for comprehensive manuals of this era)
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, common for sales)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual/automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differential, rear axle
Chassis:
Suspension (front/rear), steering system, braking system, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, engine control unit (ECU), body electricals, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical troubleshooting and component replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, common fault finding procedures
Restoration:
Component refurbishment techniques, parts identification, corrosion prevention, detailed disassembly and reassembly instructions
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 valves
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Horsepower Approx:
101 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque Approx:
101 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per BMW specifications)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless or Distributor-based, check specific VIN)
Transmission Type:
Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-Speed Automatic
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
Length:
Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1680 mm (66.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Curb Weight Approx:
1200-1300 kg (depending on transmission and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:
1700 kg
Crash Testing Era:
Pre-modern safety standards; focus on occupant protection within contemporary norms.
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Drums (standard); Optional 4-wheel discs on some variants
Power Steering:
Hydraulic Power Assisted Steering
Seat Belts:
Front 3-point inertia-reel seat belts; Rear lap belts (3-point optional/later models)
Body Construction:
Unitized steel body with front and rear crumple zones.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column
Audio System:
Factory fitted cassette radio with AM/FM tuner, optional CD player later in E30 life cycle.
Speaker System:
Typically 4-6 speakers (door and rear parcel shelf).
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on later models or specific trims.
Original Features:
Basic analog instrumentation, limited electronic aids characteristic of its era.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 miles (depending on spark plug type and condition).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent, viscosity 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for exact spec based on climate).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (hose, radiator, water pump), fuel injector issues, distributor/ignition module failure, rust (wheel arches, rockers, strut towers), subframe cracking (rear), dashboard warning lights.
Preventative Measures:
Regular inspection of cooling system, timely replacement of fuel pumps and distributors, underbody rust proofing, regular drivetrain inspection.
Brand Identity:
BMW is synonymous with 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance, engineering, and luxury.
E30 Generation:
The E30 generation (1982-1991) was a significant success, marking BMW's entry into more accessible market segments while maintaining brand prestige.
318I Positioning:
The 318i served as the entry-level model in the E30 lineup, offering the core BMW experience at a more attainable price point.
Production Period:
1987 model year falls within the first phase of the E30's production (1982-1987 pre-facelift).
Automotive Press Awards:
The E30 platform consistently received praise from automotive publications for its driving dynamics and build quality, often featuring in 'best of' lists for its class.
Reliability Perception:
While known for driving pleasure, earlier BMWs require diligent maintenance to maintain reliability; the M10 engine is generally robust.
Manual Standard:
Adheres to automotive repair manual industry standards for clarity and technical accuracy.
