🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

8 Series

Model Generation:

E31

Years Covered:

1989-1993

Chassis Code:

E31

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 8 Series (E31) represented BMW's entry into the ultra-luxury grand tourer segment, competing with models like the Mercedes-Benz SL and the Porsche 928. It was positioned as a high-performance, sophisticated, and technologically advanced coupe.

Competitive Analysis:

The E31 8 Series offered a blend of V8 or V12 power, advanced aerodynamics, a driver-focused cockpit, and luxurious appointments, differentiating itself through its unique styling and BMW's renowned driving dynamics. Its technology, such as the self-leveling suspension and electronic damper control, set it apart from many contemporaries.

Key Features:

Pop-up headlights, frameless doors, shark-nose front end, powerful V8 and V12 engines, sophisticated chassis dynamics, luxurious interior, advanced electronics for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All systems and components of the BMW 8 Series (E31) models from 1989-1993

Page Count:

Estimated 3000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain, suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic & ABS), electrical system, body control module (BCM), climate control, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), infotainment, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), interior trim, exterior body panels, lighting, diagnostics, troubleshooting

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, lubrication, fluid changes, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides, component testing, calibration, specifications, torque values, alignment procedures

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks and filter replacements to complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

High-resolution, searchable PDF

Print Quality:

Printable, with clear diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.0L M60B40 V8

Engine Variants:

4.0L M60B40 V8, 4.4L M62B44 V8 (later models), 5.0L M70B50 V12, 5.6L M73B56 V12 (later models)

Performance V8:

Approx. 282 hp @ 5800 rpm, 295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (M60B40)

Performance V12:

Approx. 296 hp @ 5200 rpm, 332 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (M70B50)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)

Engine Management:

Digital Engine Management (DME)

Bore Stroke V8:

92.0 mm x 72.7 mm (M60B40)

Compression Ratio V8:

10.0:1 (M60B40)

Bore Stroke V12:

84.0 mm x 90.0 mm (M70B50)

Compression Ratio V12:

8.8:1 (M70B50)

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 420G for V8 models)

Optional:

4-speed automatic transmission (ZF 4HP24 for V8, ZF 5HP30 for V12)

Features Auto:

Electronic control, Sport mode, Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) was considered but not produced for E31.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch (manual)

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

Dexron III / Mercon or equivalent (check specific model for precise specification)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol TWS Motorsport 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approx. 4,780 mm (188.2 in)

Exterior Width:

Approx. 1,855 mm (73.0 in)

Exterior Height:

Approx. 1,370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,630 mm (103.5 in)

Curb Weight V8:

Approx. 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs) (manual transmission)

Curb Weight V12:

Approx. 1,850 kg (4,079 lbs)

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 330 liters (11.6 cu ft)

Fuel Capacity:

Approx. 90 liters (23.8 US gal)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

No official crash test ratings are widely available for this era of BMW as standardized testing was less prevalent. However, it was engineered to meet stringent safety standards of its time.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASC+T for later models), Electronic Damper Control (EDC) on some models.

Passive Features:

Driver and passenger front airbags, reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones, seatbelt pretensioners.

Brake System Front:

Ventilated discs, 324 mm diameter (typical for 840i/850i)

Brake System Rear:

Solid discs, 308 mm diameter (typical for 840i/850i)

Tire Size Standard:

235/50 R16 (common for 840i), 235/50 R16 front / 255/45 R16 rear (common for 850i)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Cassette player with optional CD changer, AM/FM radio, premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon optional).

Driver Assistance:

Cruise control, Electronic Damper Control (EDC) on some models allowing adjustable suspension firmness.

Connectivity:

Basic telecommunications features for its era, no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control, often with advanced features like residual heat usage.

Lighting System:

Pop-up headlights, Xenon headlights were introduced in later E31 revisions (post-1993) but not standard on early models.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil Change:

Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Long-life synthetic oil recommended.

Service Intervals Spark Plugs:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Service Intervals Brakes:

Inspect brake pads and rotors at every service. Replace as needed based on wear.

Service Intervals Coolant:

Replace coolant every 2-3 years or as per manufacturer recommendation, typically using BMW Blue Coolant.

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 full synthetic API SM/SN or ACEA A3/B4. (e.g., BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30)

Fluid Capacities Engine Oil V8:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change (M60B40)

Fluid Capacities Engine Oil V12:

Approx. 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts) with filter change (M70B50)

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 4

Known Issues Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; thermostat housing leaks; water pump failure.

Known Issues Engine:

M60 V8: Nikasil cylinder liner wear (early models), VANOS system issues, oil leaks from gaskets and seals. M70 V12: Ignition coil failures, coolant leaks, electrical issues related to complexity.

Known Issues Electrical:

Wiring harness degradation, ABS/ASC control module failures, window regulator issues, central locking problems, dashboard warning lights.

Filter Part Numbers Oil Filter:

Mann-Filter W940/24, Mahle OX 23, BMW 11421745032 (verify for specific engine)

Filter Part Numbers Air Filter:

Mann-Filter C35188/2, Mahle LX 849, BMW 13721730014 (verify for specific engine)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German manufacturer renowned for luxury and performance vehicles, with a long history dating back to 1916. The brand is synonymous with 'The Ultimate Driving Machine'.

Model Evolution:

The E31 8 Series was designed to replace the aging E24 6 Series coupe and to be BMW's flagship coupe. It was a bold step into a new market segment, showcasing BMW's engineering prowess and design language. It was produced from 1989 to 1999, with a significant facelift and engine update in 1994 (ushering in the M60B44 and M73 engines).

Production Years:

1989-1999

Production Locations:

Dingolfing, Germany

Sales Figures:

Total production of the E31 8 Series was relatively low, with approximately 31,000 units produced globally over its decade-long run. The V12 models (850i/850Ci/850CSi) were more exclusive.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the E31 8 Series did not win specific mainstream awards in the same way modern cars do, it was critically acclaimed for its design, engineering, and performance. It is widely regarded as a modern classic and an icon of 1990s automotive design.

Ratings:

Contemporary reviews praised its performance, handling, and luxurious interior, though some noted its high price and the complexity of the V12 engine.

Certifications:

Designed and manufactured to meet German TUV and European safety and emissions standards of the late 1980s and 1990s.