Segment:
Executive Sedan / Sports Sedan
Positioning:
Premium European luxury sport sedan, competing with Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi 100/200
Key Competitors 1987:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi Quattro Sedan, Volvo 700 Series, Jaguar XJ6
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced handling, rear-wheel drive, and driver-focused experience
Engine Performance:
Powerful inline-six engines offering smooth power delivery and excellent torque
Build Quality:
Exceptional German engineering and build quality, contributing to longevity and refinement
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, driveshafts, differentials
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front McPherson strut, rear trailing arm/semi-trailing arm), steering, brakes (disc front/rear, ABS on some models), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, starting and charging system, body electronics, power accessories
Body And Interior:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical diagnostics and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common issue identification
Technical Data And Specs:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic values
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
PDF Quality:
Likely high-resolution scans of original factory documents, ensuring clarity and readability
Printable:
Designed for full or partial printing by the user
Binding For Printed Version:
N/A (Digital Download - PDF)
Paper Type For Printed Version:
N/A (Digital Download - PDF)
Engine Type 535I:
3.4L SOHC Inline-6 Cylinder
Engine Code M535I:
M30B34
Engine Type M535I:
3.4L SOHC Inline-6 Cylinder
Horsepower 535I:
Approximately 182-189 hp @ 5400 rpm (depending on market/catalytic converter)
Torque 535I:
Approximately 224-230 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Horsepower M535I:
Approximately 218 hp @ 5700 rpm (Euro spec)
Torque M535I:
Approximately 225 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (Euro spec)
Fuel Delivery System:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ octane)
Transmission 535I:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Transmission M535I:
Getrag 280 5-speed manual transmission (often preferred over Getrag 260)
Transmission Optional 535I:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Transmission Optional M535I:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Rear Axle Ratio Manual:
Typically 3.25:1 or 3.46:1, varies by model and market
Length E28:
Approximately 188.0 inches (4775 mm)
Width E28:
Approximately 68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height E28:
Approximately 55.1 inches (1400 mm)
Wheelbase E28:
Approximately 104.5 inches (2654 mm)
Curb Weight 535I:
Approximately 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg)
Curb Weight M535I:
Approximately 3600-3800 lbs (1633-1724 kg)
NHTSA Ratings 1987:
NHTSA testing data for this era is limited, but generally considered safe for its time
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on some models
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag not standard on most 1987 E28 models; available on later E28s or optional
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, rear lap belts
Body Construction:
Unitized body construction with significant crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory cassette player with AM/FM radio, optional CD player on later models
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers, depending on trim level
Cruise Control:
Standard on most 535i and M535i models
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control)
Connectivity Features:
N/A (no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB)
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles with synthetic oil
Oil Change Interval Conventional:
Typically 3,000 - 5,000 miles with conventional oil
Spark Plug Replacement:
15,000 - 30,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (OHC Inline-6 engines use a timing chain)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40, API SG rated or higher (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with water (typically 50/50 mix)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III (or equivalent) ATF
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Problems:
Cooling system (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel pump failure, electrical issues (e.g., fuse box, wiring harness degradation), heater control valve failure, rear shock mount wear, window regulator problems
E28 Specific Issues:
Flex disc (guibo) wear in driveshaft, potential fuel tank sender unit issues, rust in common areas like wheel arches and rockers
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on performance, engineering, and driver engagement
E28 Introduction:
Introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12 5 Series, the E28 was a significant evolution in BMW's executive sedan line.
E28 Update:
The E28 received a facelift in 1985 with updated bumpers, grille, and interior refinements.
Production Years:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (Dingolfing plant)
Car And Driver 10Best:
E28 5 Series models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' list during their production run, recognizing their performance and handling.
General Reputation:
Highly regarded for its driving dynamics, build quality, and timeless design, considered a benchmark for sports sedans of its era.
