🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Sub Model:

316 / 316i

Year:

1983

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive / Sport Sedan

Key Competitors 1983:

Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo Giulietta/75, Ford Sierra, Opel Ascona/Vectra.

Strengths Of E30 316:

Renowned BMW driving dynamics, solid build quality, rear-wheel drive platform, efficient engines (especially the 316i), and a premium image.

Driving Dynamics:

Excellent handling and chassis balance due to near 50/50 weight distribution.

Design Philosophy:

Classic BMW sedan styling, focused on driver engagement and practicality.

Value For Owner:

Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving costs and ensuring proper upkeep of a classic vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All BMW 316 and 316i variants for the 1983 model year

Engine Variants Covered:

All engine types specific to the 316 and 316i models of 1983

Transmission Types Covered:

Manual and Automatic transmissions

Trim Levels Covered:

All trim levels and options applicable to the 1983 316/316i

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, but typically 500+ pages for a comprehensive workshop manual

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for engine overhaul, component replacement, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (including Bosch K-Jetronic for 316i), and exhaust system.

Engine Management:

Diagnosis and repair of electronic engine control units (ECU), ignition system, and fuel injection systems.

Transmission Manual:

Service, repair, and overhaul of the Getrag 5-speed manual transmission, including clutch assembly and drive shafts.

Transmission Automatic:

Maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of the automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 3HP22), including fluid changes and solenoid testing.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (MacPherson struts, trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), and wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes (or rear discs on some models), brake system bleeding, caliper and cylinder replacement, brake pad/shoe wear limits, and parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting of headlights, taillights, interior lighting, power windows, central locking, instrument cluster, charging system (alternator, starter), and battery.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, bumpers, and basic chassis repair procedures.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, fluid checks and top-offs.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and step-by-step procedures for identifying and resolving common mechanical and electrical issues.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for the repair and complete overhaul of major mechanical components, including engines, transmissions, and suspension.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step guides for replacing specific parts such as alternators, water pumps, fuel injectors, brake calipers, and door handles.

Diagnosis:

Systematic approaches to diagnosing faults using visual inspection, testing procedures, and component resistance/voltage checks.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes (typically, depending on PDF creation)

Printable:

Yes

Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for professional printing if required.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 316:

M10B18 (typically)

Engine Type 316:

Inline-4, Naturally Aspirated, SOHC

Displacement 316:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Bore Stroke 316:

89 mm x 71 mm

Compression Ratio 316:

8.5:1 (typical)

Engine Code 316I:

M10B18 (with fuel injection)

Engine Type 316I:

Inline-4, Naturally Aspirated, SOHC, Fuel Injection

Displacement 316I:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Horsepower 316:

90 PS (89 bhp / 66 kW) @ 5500 rpm (DIN)

Torque 316:

137 Nm (101 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (DIN)

Horsepower 316I:

99 PS (98 bhp / 73 kW) @ 5500 rpm (DIN)

Torque 316I:

143 Nm (105 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (DIN)

Fuel System 316:

Carburetor (e.g., Pierburg 2B4)

Fuel System 316I:

Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91-95)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Manual (Getrag 245)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 265) / 3-speed Automatic (ZF 3HP22)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation

Drive Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4325 mm (170.3 in)

Width:

1674 mm (65.9 in)

Height:

1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

2570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1100-1180 kg (2425-2600 lbs), depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1600 kg (3527 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards Era:

Designed to meet prevailing safety standards of the early 1980s; specific crash test ratings from modern agencies may not be directly comparable.

Seat Belts:

Standard 3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear seat belts.

Crumple Zones:

Engineered crumple zones front and rear.

Dashboard Design:

Energy-absorbing dashboard padding.

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, rear drums.

Antilock Brakes:

Optional on some later E30 models, unlikely as standard on 1983 316/316i.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio/cassette player, often with basic speaker setup. Aftermarket upgrades common.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and temperature. Warning lights for various systems.

Driver Aids:

Limited by era; no electronic stability control or traction control. ABS optional on later models.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards. Primarily mechanical and analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 10,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 40,000 km (20,000 - 25,000 miles).

Timing Belt Chain:

The M10 engine uses a timing chain, which typically lasts the life of the engine but requires periodic inspection for tensioner wear.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 40,000 - 50,000 km (25,000 - 30,000 miles).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended (check manual for specific ambient temperature viscosity).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Transmission Oil Manual:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (e.g., BMW MTF LT-2).

Transmission Oil Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent ATF fluid.

Differential Oil:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

Rust:

Common rust points include wheel arches, rocker panels, sills, and around windows.

Cooling System:

Hoses, thermostat, and water pump can degrade over time, leading to overheating.

Fuel Injection 316I:

K-Jetronic system can be sensitive to vacuum leaks and require periodic adjustment or rebuilding of fuel distributor and accumulators.

Rubber Bushings:

Suspension and steering bushings (control arms, sway bars) wear out, affecting handling and causing knocking noises.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion and wear in electrical connectors, particularly ground points, can lead to intermittent electrical faults.

Heater Core:

Leaking heater cores are a common issue, often requiring dashboard removal for replacement.

Preventative:

Regular inspection of all rubber components (hoses, belts, bushings) and fluid levels is crucial for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, established a legacy of producing high-quality, driver-focused vehicles with sporting credentials.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 platform was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the highly successful E21 3 Series. It represented a significant step forward in design and engineering.

E30 316 316I Role:

The 316 and 316i served as the entry-level models in the E30 range, offering BMW quality and driving experience at a more accessible price point.

E30 Production Years:

1982 - 1994

E30 Global Production Volume:

Over 2.3 million units worldwide across all variants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 Reputation:

The E30 3 Series is widely regarded as one of the best driving cars of its era and a modern classic, celebrated for its purity of design and handling.

E30 Awards:

Frequently cited in 'best of' lists for automotive history by publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Road & Track.

Certification Standard:

Manufactured to ISO 9001 quality standards (or equivalent German automotive standards of the era).