🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

316

Year:

1984

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code:

M10 (likely variants like M10B18)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 316 (E30) represented BMW's entry-level offering in the compact executive sedan segment, providing sporty handling and premium build quality at a more accessible price point.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and various Japanese luxury sedans of the era.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and engaging driving experience.

Build Quality:

Typical BMW build quality of the era, emphasizing durable materials and precise engineering.

Value Proposition:

Essential for owners of the 1984 BMW 316 (E30) to maintain its performance, reliability, and classic status. Provides the knowledge to perform repairs that might otherwise require expensive dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Full Service and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

High (typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive manuals of this era)

Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely a digital format (PDF) for modern sales, but originally printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, timing belt/chain, piston rings, valve guides, crankshaft, camshaft, oil pump, cooling system, lubrication, fuel delivery.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (likely Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic), ignition system, sensor diagnostics, ECU troubleshooting.

Transmission:

Manual transmission repair, clutch service, gear synchronization, driveshafts, universal joints.

Drivetrain:

Differential overhaul, rear axle components, wheel bearings.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, caliper/wheel cylinder rebuilding, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, fuse box, relays, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.

Body Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis lubrication.

HVAC:

Heating and ventilation system components, blower motor, air conditioning system (if equipped).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, fluid level checks, belt tensioning, tire rotation.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting trees.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Diagnostics:

Use of diagnostic tools, interpretation of fault codes (if applicable), voltage and resistance testing.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications and clearances.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for readability and printing. Searchable text functionality is a strong possibility for digital versions.

Quality:

If printed, expect clear, legible text and high-resolution diagrams. Digital versions will mirror this quality.

Binding:

For original printed manuals: perfect bound or spiral bound for durability and lay-flat use. Digital versions have no physical binding.

Paper Quality:

For original printed manuals: heavy-duty paper stock to withstand workshop conditions. Digital versions are independent of paper type.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.2:1 to 8.8:1 (depending on specific variant)

Horsepower:

Approximately 100-105 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 100-105 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm

Injection Type:

Bosch L-Jetronic (most common for 316) or potentially K-Jetronic (CIS).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (premium octane recommended)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., BMW Antifreeze/Coolant)

Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact specification)

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic (ZF 3HP22)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios will be detailed in the manual; typically designed for a balance of acceleration and cruising.

Automatic Features:

Torque converter, hydraulic control.

Manual Fluid:

GL-4 gear oil (SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 recommended, check manual)

Automatic Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent (BMW P/N 83 22 0 024 359)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4360 mm (171.7 in)

Width:

Approximately 1675 mm (65.9 in)

Height:

Approximately 1380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1150-1200 kg (2535-2645 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Check specific vehicle data sheet.

Standard Tire Size:

175/70 R14

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100 mm (ET35 to ET42 offset typically)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited formal crash test data available for this specific year and model from modern standards. Early E30s were designed with crumple zones and safety cages inherent to BMW's safety philosophy.

Braking System:

Front ventilated discs, rear drums. ABS was generally an option on higher trims or later models in the E30 series, unlikely standard on the 316 in 1984.

Seatbelts:

Front three-point inertia-reel seatbelts, rear lap belts.

Construction:

Integral safety cage, energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional amplifier and additional speakers. Analog controls.

Features:

Limited to basic driver aids. Features like ABS were optional and not standard on all models. No electronic stability control or advanced traction control.

Features:

No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific mileage recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed (specific plug type and gap critical).

Timing Belt Replacement:

If the M10 engine uses a timing belt (some variants of the M10 had chains, but later versions and 1.8L might have belts), check manual for interval (e.g., 60,000 miles / 5 years).

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 7.0 liters (7.4 US quarts)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for precise specification)

Common Issues:

Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel injector issues, electrical connector corrosion, differential seal leaks, rust in common E30 areas (fender arches, rocker panels, trunk floor).

Maintenance Tip:

Regularly inspect rubber components (hoses, bushings) for degradation due to age.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW, founded in 1916, has a long history of producing high-quality, performance-oriented vehicles known for their driving dynamics and engineering excellence.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the highly successful E21. It marked a significant evolution in design and engineering.

E30 Variants:

The E30 platform spawned numerous variants including sedans (2-door and 4-door), coupes, convertibles, and the highly sought-after M3.

Production Period:

The E30 generation was produced from 1982 to 1994, with the 316 being a core model throughout much of its production.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany, with some assembly occurring in other international locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E30 Reputation:

The E30 generation is widely regarded by automotive enthusiasts as one of the best driving BMWs ever made. It has achieved classic status and is highly collectible.

Modern Ratings:

Frequently appears on 'best of' lists for affordable classic sports sedans and driver's cars.