E30 Era Positioning:
The BMW E30 3 Series redefined the compact executive sports sedan segment, offering a blend of performance, handling, and luxury that appealed to driving enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Key Competitors:
Primary competitors included the Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, and Alfa Romeo Alfetta/75.
E30 Distinguishing Attributes:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, engaging driving dynamics, durable engineering, and iconic design. The 316 represented the entry-level sporty option in the E30 lineup.
Engine Service:
Detailed procedures for engine repair, rebuilding, and diagnostics, including timing belt/chain, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, and lubrication systems.
Drivetrain Service:
Coverage of clutch, transmission (manual and potentially automatic), driveshaft, differential, and axle repairs.
Suspension And Steering:
Information on front and rear suspension components, steering rack, power steering system, and wheel alignment procedures.
Brake System:
Detailed repair and maintenance of hydraulic brake systems, including disc and drum brake servicing, fluid bleeding, and ABS if applicable to specific models.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for starting and charging systems, lighting, instrument cluster, and various electrical components.
Fuel And Exhaust:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel delivery, fuel pump, injectors, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler systems.
Body And Chassis:
Procedures for body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass, doors, and basic chassis maintenance.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
Maintenance and repair of HVAC systems, including blower motor, evaporator, condenser, and refrigerant handling.
Routine Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid checks.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle faults.
Component Removal And Installation:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembling and reassembling virtually every mechanical and electrical component.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed guidance for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds, including necessary specifications and tolerances.
Restoration Guidance:
Information that can aid in the refurbishment and restoration of E30 models.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Covers basic diagnostics to advanced troubleshooting, enabling identification of complex issues.
Repair Scope:
From minor adjustments to complete overhauls and component replacements.
Special Tool Requirements:
Likely specifies any unique or special tools required for certain procedures, common in BMW service manuals.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder (M10 series)
Displacement:
Typically 1.8 Liters (e.g., 1766 cc for the M10B18)
Bore X Stroke:
e.g., 89.0 mm x 71.0 mm for M10B18
Compression Ratio:
Varies by specific variant, often around 8.8:1 to 9.5:1
Horsepower:
Approximately 90-105 PS (90-104 bhp; 66-77 kW) depending on specific market and tune.
Torque:
Approximately 140-155 Nm (103-114 lb-ft) depending on specific market and tune.
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic or LE-Jetronic)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (required after introduction of unleaded fuel regulations)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan (2-door and 4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Touring (5-door Wagon - though 316 was less common in Touring)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Front Track:
Approx. 1406 mm (55.4 in)
Rear Track:
Approx. 1436 mm (56.5 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150-1250 kg (2535-2756 lbs) depending on body style and equipment
Historical Safety Standards:
Designed to meet safety standards of its era, with crumple zones, safety cage construction, and energy-absorbing materials. Modern safety ratings are not directly applicable.
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (standard for 316); some later or optional models may have rear discs.
ABS:
Optional on some later models, not standard on all 316 E30s.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Major Service Interval:
Spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter often recommended every 30,000-50,000 km (18,000-30,000 miles).
Timing Belt Replacement:
The M10 engine uses a timing chain, which generally does not require replacement unless worn or problematic.
Engine Oil Grade:
e.g., 15W-40, 10W-40, or 5W-30 synthetic depending on climate and manufacturer recommendations (refer to manual for precise specs).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, typically blue or green color (e.g., BMW Coolant or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent.
Common E30 Wear Items:
Fuel distributor leaks, idle control valve issues, door seal degradation, sunroof drain blockages, worn control arm bushings, heater core leaks, radiator fan clutch failure.
M10 Engine Considerations:
Can be prone to oil leaks from the front crank seal and valve cover gasket; idle speed fluctuations due to vacuum leaks.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, sporty, and well-engineered vehicles.
E30 Development:
Successor to the highly acclaimed E21 3 Series, the E30 was a significant evolution in BMW's compact executive car line, introducing new technology and improved dynamics.
Production Period:
1982-1991 (global, with E30 316 models primarily produced 1983-1988)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), but also South Africa, and assembly operations in other countries.
E30 Model Recognition:
The E30 generation of the 3 Series consistently ranked highly in enthusiast publications for its driving dynamics and build quality throughout its production run.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Received widespread praise from automotive journalists for its 'pure' driving feel, sharp handling, and responsive steering, establishing BMW's reputation for sporty sedans.
Historical Certifications:
Adhered to all relevant German and international automotive safety and emissions standards of the era.
