Segment:
Performance Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, Performance Drivers, Track Day Participants
Competitors:
Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Peugeot 405 Mi16, Alfa Romeo 75 Evoluzione
Motorsport Homologation:
Developed for Group A Touring Car racing homologation
Handling:
Renowned for its exceptional handling and driver feedback
Engine Development:
Unique S14 4-cylinder engine, derived from BMW's M10 block
Aerodynamics:
Distinctive flared arches, front air dam, and rear spoiler for improved downforce
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Management, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Battery, Charging System, Fuses & Relays
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Bumpers, Aerodynamics
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Top-offs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Error Code Interpretation
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair
Diagnostics:
Component Testing, Electrical Schematics Interpretation, OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) Procedures
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Tightening Sequences, Alignment Data, Component Tolerances
Depth:
Expert Level; Covers detailed diagnostics, component-level repair, and complete system overhauls.
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2302 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
93.7 mm x 84.0 mm
Horsepower:
192 hp @ 6100 rpm (Catalytic Converter Version: 190 hp @ 6100 rpm)
Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm (Catalytic Converter Version: 164 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (91+ Octane)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Electronic Ignition Control
Coolant Type:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based)
Oil Capacity:
5.0 Liters (5.3 US Quarts) with filter
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate and usage, check manual for specific recommendations)
Type:
Getrag 265 5-Speed Manual
Gear Ratios:
Close-ratio, with a Dogleg first gear (first gear is angled forward and down)
Type:
N/A (M3 E30 exclusively manual)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
1.5 Liters (1.6 US Quarts)
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Red Line MTL 75W-80)
Crash Test Data:
Data from era; later models may have more extensive testing. Focus on design for occupant protection.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (Ventilated front discs, solid rear discs)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column
Construction:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Oil Change:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-18 months (refer to manual for precise interval based on driving conditions)
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (more frequently in dusty conditions)
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (typically NGK BPR6ES or equivalent)
Timing Belt:
N/A (S14 engine uses a timing chain)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (e.g., Ate Super Blue Racing or equivalent high-performance fluid)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)
Head Gasket:
Can be prone to leaks if overheated or due to age; proper coolant levels are crucial.
Oil Pan Leaks:
Common due to age of seals and gaskets.
Rear Axle Bushings:
Wear can lead to wheel hop and instability under acceleration.
Subframe Mounts:
Can crack or become loose, affecting alignment and handling.
ECU Issues:
Early models can suffer from DME (Digital Motor Electronics) failures or corrosion.
Bmw Motorsport:
Direct lineage from BMW's successful motorsport division
Purpose:
Homologation special for Group A Touring Car racing
Design Origin:
Based on the standard E30 3 Series chassis, but heavily modified for performance
Production Years:
1986-1991
Production Volume:
Approx. 18,000 units worldwide
Manufacturing Locations:
Munich, Germany
