🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Model Variant:

325e, 325es, 325is

Year:

1984-1990

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Era Positioning:

The E30 generation 3 Series was BMW's compact executive sports sedan and coupe, renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sporty yet practical nature. The 325e/es/is models represented the higher-performance, inline-six powered variants.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, and various sport sedans from American and Japanese manufacturers.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, precise steering, and engaging handling.

Engine Smoothness:

M20 inline-six engines offered smooth power delivery and characteristic BMW refinement.

Build Quality:

Solid construction and durable materials contributed to the E30's longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Workshop

Specific Models Covered:

BMW 325e, 325es, 325is

Years Covered:

1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific publisher, typically 500-1000+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals.

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (e.g., PDF) and/or Print

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, component replacement (e.g., pistons, valves, bearings), lubrication system, cooling system.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, fuel lines, EVAP system.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, distributor (early models), ECU control, timing.

Transmission:

Manual (Getrag 260) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmission overhaul, repair, fluid changes, clutch service, torque converter.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, rear axle, limited-slip differential (LSD) options.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, control arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, lubrication.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes (vented), rear disc brakes, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake, ABS (optional).

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box, relays, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, climate control unit.

Bodywork:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, bumpers, trim, rust repair.

Interior:

Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, interior trim, headliner.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system diagnostics.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, system overhauls, and common repairs.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed procedures for removing and reinstalling major components and sub-assemblies.

Technical Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, adjustment procedures, alignment data, fluid capacities.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance and basic adjustments to complex engine and transmission overhauls and advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF; check for searchable text and high-resolution images.

Print Quality:

For printed versions: High-quality paper stock, clear diagrams and text, durable binding.

Binding Type:

For printed versions: Typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use and durability.

Paper Type:

For printed versions: Durable, potentially glossy paper for diagrams and photos.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M20

Configuration:

Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

2.7 Liters (2693 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 81 mm (325e), 84 mm x 77 mm (325is)

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 (325e), 9.4:1 (325is)

Horsepower:

121 hp @ 4800 rpm (325e), 168 hp @ 5800 rpm (325is)

Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (325e), 164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (325is)

Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.

Differential:

Open differential; LSD option available on some models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.2 inches (2570 mm)

Length:

170.3 inches (4325 mm)

Width:

67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2800-3100 lbs (1270-1406 kg), depending on model and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by specific model, typically around 4000 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Older vehicles often lack standardized NHTSA/IIHS ratings comparable to modern vehicles. Known for robust structure for its time.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models, especially later production.

Airbags:

Driver airbag became standard in later years of this generation, but was not present on earliest models.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with front pretensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Factory AM/FM cassette players were common; upgradable to modern head units with adapters.

Speakers:

Typically 4-6 speakers, depending on options.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available on many models.

Original Connectivity:

Limited by era; primarily focused on the vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult the manual for specific recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for M20 engines. Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles or 3-5 years due to its non-interference design, though failure can still cause significant damage. The manual will detail the procedure and torque specs.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 miles for standard plugs.

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH or higher. Viscosity typically 15W-40 or 10W-40 depending on climate. Consult manual for exact specifications.

Coolant:

BMW blue coolant (G48) or compatible ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Must be flushed and replaced regularly (e.g., every 2 years).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Gear oil for manual transmission, typically GL-4 rated, 75W-90 or 80W-90. Check manual for exact BMW specification.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF fluid for ZF 4HP22 automatic transmissions.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or compatible hydraulic fluid. Manual will specify.

Heater Core Leaks:

Common issue leading to coolant leaks and foggy windows. Located behind the dashboard.

Cracked Dashboards:

Sun exposure can cause the dashboard top to crack.

Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:

Age and heat can degrade the oil pan gasket, leading to leaks.

Fuel Injector Seals:

Can degrade, causing fuel leaks or rough running.

Rubber Bushings:

Suspension and drivetrain bushings degrade over time, affecting handling and ride quality.

Wiper Pivot Seals:

Failure can allow water into the HVAC blower motor housing.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for performance, engineering excellence, and driver-focused vehicles is embodied in the E30 generation.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the E21 3 Series, bringing a more modern design and improved dynamics.

325E Introduction:

The 'e' ('eta') designation was introduced in 1983/1984, featuring a larger, more low-revving 2.7L M20 engine optimized for economy and torque, making it a smooth cruiser.

325Es Introduction:

The 'es' often denoted the sportier suspension and cosmetic package for the 325e.

325Is Introduction:

The 'is' model, introduced later (typically 1987 in North America), featured the higher-compression 2.5L M20 engine (similar to European 325i) offering more spirited performance.

Production Years E30:

1982-1994 (global, with significant updates and facelifts).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; assembly also occurred in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The E30 generation consistently received praise from automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and engineering, often cited as a benchmark in its class.

Classic Status:

Highly regarded by enthusiasts and often considered a 'modern classic' with strong collector interest.