🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

318i

Year:

1983

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code:

M10B18

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 318i (E30) was positioned as an entry-level luxury sports sedan and coupe, offering BMW's characteristic driving dynamics and build quality in a more accessible package than its larger siblings.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Volvo 240, and various Japanese luxury sedans of the era. It was lauded for its superior handling and driver engagement.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and RWD layout, providing excellent driver feedback and agility.

Build Quality:

Exemplified BMW's commitment to solid engineering and durable construction, contributing to its longevity.

Design:

Clean, understated, and timeless design penned by Claus Luthe, establishing the iconic E30 silhouette.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Full Service, Repair, Maintenance, Rebuilding, Refurbishing, Restoration

Page Count:

Detailed (Exact page count not specified in product info, but implied to be comprehensive)

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (implied by 'manual')

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, timing, lubrication system, cooling system

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pressure regulator

Ignition System:

Ignition coil, distributor, spark plugs, ignition timing, control module

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, instrumentation

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox assembly, gears, synchronizers, shifting mechanism, driveshafts, U-joints

Transmission Automatic:

Not explicitly mentioned for 318i E30 M10B18, but often covered in comprehensive manuals for the platform

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, sway bars

Steering:

Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering system (if equipped)

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (common for 318i E30), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, chassis components, sound deadening, rust repair, paint care

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, A/C system (if equipped)

Interior Trim:

Seat removal/installation, dashboard components, door panels, headliner

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake inspection, tire rotation

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair across all systems

Rebuilding Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, and major component rebuilds

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits

Diagnostic Codes:

Explanation of diagnostic fault codes (if applicable to the 1983 model's diagnostic capabilities)

Depth:

Comprehensive (covers basic to advanced repairs and rebuilds)

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF if sold digitally, or physical print

Print Quality:

Professional-grade printing (expected for a quality repair manual)

Binding:

Perfect bound or spiral bound (common for workshop manuals)

Paper Type:

Durable, high-quality paper stock suitable for workshop environments

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1766 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 71.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.1:1 (typical for M10B18)

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 Valves

Horsepower:

99 bhp @ 5800 rpm (approximate, may vary by market/spec)

Torque:

101 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approximate, may vary by market/spec)

Injection Type:

Bosch L-Jetronic (Continuous Injection System)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating appropriate for the era, typically 91 or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

3-speed ZF 3HP22 Automatic Transmission

Drive Type:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Differential:

Open Differential

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,310 mm (169.7 in)

Width:

1,674 mm (65.9 in)

Height:

1,380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

2,570 mm (101.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1150 kg (2535 lbs) for manual transmission sedan

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not specified, but typically around 1600-1700 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety:

While official ratings from modern agencies like NHTSA/IIHS were not as comprehensive in 1983, the E30 chassis was known for its robust construction and safety cell design.

Brake System:

Hydraulic, dual-circuit, front disc brakes with rear drum brakes.

Steering System:

Recirculating ball steering, with optional power assistance.

Seatbelts:

Standard 3-point front seatbelts, lap belts in the rear.

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger safety cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Period-appropriate factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Blaupunkt).

Features:

Limited driver assistance features by modern standards. Primarily focused on core driving mechanics. Optional features may have included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on some later models or higher trims, but not standard on the 1983 318i.

Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration. Vehicle communication is analog.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. (Consult manual for exact mileage/time based on driving conditions).

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as per manual recommendations for the specific plug type (e.g., Bosch W8AC).

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 24 months.

Engine Oil:

API SG/SF rated, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations). Capacity: Approx. 4.0-4.5 liters with filter.

Coolant:

50/50 mixture of BMW approved antifreeze and distilled water. Specific coolant type: Ethylene glycol based.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. (Inspect and replace every 24 months).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.4 liters.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III (or equivalent, consult manual for exact spec). Capacity: Approx. 1.0-1.2 liters for fluid change.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, thermostat housing leaks, fan clutch failure, heater core leaks (common due to age).

Suspension Bushings:

Wear and tear on control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, and sway bar bushings leading to noise and handling degradation.

Fuel Injection:

Issues with the L-Jetronic system, such as faulty airflow meter, injectors, or fuel pressure regulator.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion or loose connections in wiring harnesses, particularly grounds, leading to intermittent electrical faults.

Rust:

Common rust areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, rear shock towers, and battery tray.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long history of producing driver-focused vehicles with excellent engineering and performance since its inception in 1916.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 platform was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the popular E21 3 Series. It marked a significant evolution in BMW's design language and engineering.

318I Positioning:

The 318i was the entry-level model for the E30 range, featuring the reliable and efficient M10 engine, making it a popular choice for those seeking a BMW experience.

Production Years:

E30 production ran from 1982 to 1994. The 318i with the M10 engine was produced primarily in the early to mid-E30 production run.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some production also in other international locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The E30 3 Series, including models like the 318i, was consistently praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, build quality, and performance for its class.

Performance Index:

Often ranked highly in sports sedan categories for its balance and driver involvement.

Bmw Engineering:

Represents BMW's commitment to engineering excellence and the 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy.