Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe (entry-level luxury)
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240/740 series
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for BMW's characteristic balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and driver-focused feel.
Design:
Iconic E30 design, often considered a classic BMW aesthetic, offering practicality and sporty lines.
Powertrain Philosophy:
Emphasis on smooth, reliable inline-four engines delivering efficient performance for its class.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, cylinder head, engine block, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (EFI), ignition system, exhaust system, engine diagnostics, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, clutch, drivetrain, drive axles, universal joints
Brakes:
Brake system overhaul, hydraulic systems, ABS (if equipped), disc and drum brake service, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering system, power steering
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, mirrors, central locking, fuses and relays, ECU diagnostics
Body Chassis:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt and hose replacement
Repair Rebuild:
Engine rebuilding, transmission overhauling, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding charts, common problems and solutions, symptom-based diagnosis
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, alignment data, electrical resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, 4-stroke
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1796 cc)
Engine Family:
M40 (or potentially M10 in very early E30 316i models, though M40 is more common for the 1.8L)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 89.0 mm (typical for M40 B18)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 9.0:1 (typical for M40 B18)
Horsepower:
Approx. 105 PS (103 bhp; 77 kW) at 5800 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based, with Coil and Spark Plugs)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (Specific ECU number varies)
Length:
Approx. 4325 mm (170.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1375 mm (54.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150 kg (2535 lbs) for manual transmission
Crash Test History:
E30 platform generally performed well for its era, though official ratings from modern standards are not directly applicable.
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs (typically for higher trims/later models, some 316i might have rear drums); Optional ABS
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia reel seatbelts (front), two-point lap belts (rear)
Chassis Design:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Radio:
Factory fitted or aftermarket AM/FM radio with cassette player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature, typically on higher-spec models or introduced later in the E30 lifecycle.
Connectivity Features:
Basic for the era; focused on in-car comfort and driver information rather than external connectivity.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (recommendation based on era).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000-20,000 km (9,000-12,000 miles); replace as needed or every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-24,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace approximately every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-24,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher; Viscosity: 10W-40 or 15W-40 (consult specific manual for optimal winter/summer grades). Capacity: Approx. 4.5 Liters (with filter).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 7.5 Liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 non-silicone brake fluid. Flush and replace every 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90. Capacity: Approx. 1.3 Liters.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 1.0 Liter (dry fill), 3.0 Liters (with torque converter flush).
Engine M40:
Timing chain tensioner failure (requiring replacement), head gasket leaks, oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket.
Electrical System:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses, aging electrical components (e.g., ignition coil, fuel pump relay, MFA computer), faulty instrument cluster gauges.
Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, worn tie rod ends, strut mount degradation, power steering hose leaks.
Body Corrosion:
Rust is a common concern, particularly in wheel arches, rocker panels, around the sunroof (if equipped), and battery tray area.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for performance, engineering quality, and driver engagement established with models like the 3 Series.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation (1982-1991) was a highly successful and influential compact executive car, known for its sporty driving characteristics and wide range of engine options.
316I Positioning:
The 316i served as the entry-level model in many markets, offering the core BMW driving experience at a more accessible price point.
Production Period:
E30 production ran from 1982 to 1991. The 316i variant was produced throughout this period, with updates to engines and specifications.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some production in other BMW facilities globally.
