Segment:
Luxury Executive Sedan
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124, Audi 100/200, Volvo 700 Series, Jaguar XJ
Design Philosophy:
German engineering, driver-focused ergonomics, robust build quality, refined performance
Target Audience:
Affluent professionals, driving enthusiasts
Powertrain:
Engine (M30 inline-six, including fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication), Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain (driveshaft, differential, axles)
Chassis:
Suspension (front strut, rear semi-trailing arm), Steering (power assisted), Brakes (ABS, disc brakes front and rear), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, lighting, instrumentation, starting and charging system, power windows, mirrors, locks, climate control electronics
Bodywork:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, bumpers, seals
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common faults and their remedies, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments, torque specifications
Diagnostics:
Engine management system diagnosis, ABS system diagnosis, electrical system fault finding
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic checks to major overhauls and diagnostics, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Code And Type:
M30B34: 3.4-liter (3277 cc) inline-six SOHC
Horsepower:
182 hp @ 5500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (US Spec)
Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic (later models may have Motronic)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (CDI)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Getrag 260 manual transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control for shifting, lock-up torque converter
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW Gear Oil G2 or equivalent SAE 75W-90 synthetic
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Era Safety Standards:
Designed to meet 1980s safety regulations, including energy-absorbing bumpers and safety cage construction
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on later models
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts front and rear
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column
Headrests:
Adjustable front and rear headrests
Radio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette stereo systems, often with upgraded aftermarket head units in modern usage
Speakers:
Typically 4-6 speaker configuration
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional electronic cruise control
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (HCC - Hydro-Electro-Climatronic)
Connectivity Era:
Limited to factory radio and speaker systems; modern upgrades focus on Bluetooth and aux inputs
Oil Change Interval:
10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically every 30,000-50,000 km (18,000-30,000 miles)
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (M30 engine uses a timing chain)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Common Wear Items:
Fuel pump, AFM (Air Flow Meter), suspension bushings, heater core, sunroof drains
Electrical Gremlins:
Can occur due to age and wiring degradation, particularly with older alarm systems or aftermarket additions
Engine Cooling:
Regular coolant flushes and inspection of hoses are critical for preventing overheating in the M30 engine.
Fuel Delivery:
Clean or replace fuel filter periodically; consider upgrading fuel pump if experiencing lean conditions.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on performance and driver engagement
Predecessor:
BMW E12 5 Series
Successor:
BMW E34 5 Series
Production Years E28:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Mexico
Production Volume:
Significant volume, establishing BMW as a major player in the executive sedan market
Performance Recognition:
Consistently ranked as a top driver's car in its class by automotive publications of the era (e.g., Car and Driver, Road & Track)
Build Quality Rating:
Highly regarded for its solid construction and longevity
Certification Type:
While specific awards might be difficult to pinpoint from decades ago, the E28 series was integral to BMW's global reputation for engineering excellence.
