Positioning:
Premium Grand Tourer (GT) coupe and convertible, aimed at the luxury and performance segment of the automotive market.
Competitors:
Porsche 928, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129), Jaguar XJS, Aston Martin DB7
Design Philosophy:
Focus on grand touring comfort, powerful V8 and V12 engines, sophisticated styling, and advanced technology for its era.
Target Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking a high-performance, stylish, and comfortable luxury coupe/convertible for long-distance touring.
Primary Focus:
Complete Service and Repair Procedures
Scope:
All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmission Types
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific number not provided, but described as 'Complete' and 'A-Z')
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
Downloadable Digital File
Digital Compatibility:
PC, MAC, Tablets, Smartphones
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual and automatic), differential, driveshafts, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS)
Electrical:
Engine control unit (ECU), lighting, power accessories, infotainment systems, diagnostic connectors, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable to specific E31 variants), climate control system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, diagnostic fault codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
Installation:
Component replacement and installation guides
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians
Format:
PDF (requires Adobe Reader)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within the PDF document
Quality:
High Quality (described as 'high quality Service Repair Workshop Manual')
Print Options:
Printable by page, chapter, or entire document
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Length:
Approx. 4,785 mm (188.4 in) for Coupe, 4,815 mm (189.6 in) for Convertible
Width:
Approx. 1,855 mm (73.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,370 mm (53.9 in) for Coupe, 1,350 mm (53.1 in) for Convertible
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,634 mm (103.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,700 - 2,000 kg (3,748 - 4,409 lb), depending on engine and body style
Crash Test Data:
Not extensively rated by modern standards, but featured robust construction for its era.
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on some later models (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones
Audio System:
Optional high-fidelity sound systems, often with cassette players and CD changers.
Navigation:
Optional early generation GPS navigation systems, often with CRT screens.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Optional parking sensors (Park Distance Control) on later models.
Phone Integration:
Optional early mobile phone integration systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system or approximately every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) under normal conditions. Consult manual for specific intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles (100,000 km), but varies by engine and plug type. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid service intervals vary. Consult manual for details.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 (BMW Longlife-01 approved, e.g., Castrol EDGE) recommended. Specific viscosity may vary by engine and climate. Consult manual for exact specifications.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Consult manual for specific type and mixture ratio.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
BMW approved Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF LT-3 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1) or equivalent Dexron III/VI for later transmissions. Crucial to use the correct fluid for the specific ZF transmission.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common for this era of BMW, including issues with the complex wiring harnesses, window regulators, door locks, and ABS/ASC sensors.
Engine Specific:
Nicasil cylinder lining degradation in early M60 V8 engines (though later M62 V8 engines have iron liners). Water pump and thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts.
Fuel System:
Ejector seal leaks, fuel pump failures, and occasional idle control valve issues.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's legacy of building driver-focused, performance-oriented luxury vehicles.
Design Origin:
Designed by Boyke Boyer, intended to be a flagship GT model. Features pop-up headlights and a distinctive, flowing profile.
Key Variants:
840Ci (V8), 850i/850Ci (V12), 850CSi (performance V12), E31 Convertible (rarely produced and highly sought after).
Production Period:
1989 to 1999
Production Volume:
Relatively low, around 30,600 units globally, contributing to its exclusivity.
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
