🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E21

Model Years:

1975-1983

Engine Codes Covered:

M10 (e.g., M10B18, M10B20, M10B23), M21 (Diesel, for later E21 models, though primarily M10 focus for early '75 production)

Transmission Codes Covered:

Getrag 4-speed, Getrag 5-speed (e.g., 245, 260)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW E21 represented BMW's entry into the compact executive sedan segment, establishing the iconic 3 Series lineage. This manual targets owners and technicians seeking to maintain and repair these historically significant vehicles.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 80, and Alfa Romeo Alfetta. The E21 was lauded for its sporty handling and premium feel, setting a benchmark for its class.

Key Features:

The manual is presented as the 'Best Manual Available' on Tradebit, emphasizing completeness, no missing pages, and customer satisfaction. It highlights its suitability for DIY repairs, refurbishment, and restoration, offering a complete resource for all aspects of the E21.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional repair shops working on BMW E21 models. Emphasis on empowering owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

North America, Europe, Global

Page Count:

Hundreds (Exact number not specified, but indicates comprehensive nature)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Accessories), Bodywork, Interior Components, HVAC System, Body Electrical, Diagnosis & Troubleshooting

Electrical System Details:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major electrical components, including lighting circuits (headlights, taillights, turn signals), instrument cluster, ignition system wiring, starter circuit, charging system, and accessory circuits. Troubleshooting for common electrical faults.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Engine Overhaul & Rebuild, Fuel System Diagnosis & Repair, Ignition System Tuning, Transmission Removal & Installation, Clutch Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Servicing, Electrical Troubleshooting, Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim Removal & Installation, HVAC System Servicing, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Testing, Torque Specifications, Alignment Procedures

Bodywork Procedures:

Includes procedures for body panel alignment, rust repair techniques, welding specifications, door and window seal replacement, bumper removal and installation, and internal chassis reinforcement details.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic oil changes and tune-ups to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork restoration. Covers all aspects necessary for DIY repair and professional servicing.

Diagnostic Tools:

While not detailing modern OBD scanners, the manual covers the use of basic diagnostic tools such as multimeters, timing lights, compression testers, and fuel pressure gauges for troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

PDF format typically allows for text searching, enabling quick access to specific information. Manual implies a well-organized table of contents for navigation.

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital scans, suitable for printing clear, legible pages.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Completeness:

Claimed 'Complete Manual - No Missing Pages'. Covers all models and systems within the E21 range.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

BMW M10 inline-four cylinder petrol engine. Available in various displacements: 1.8L (M10B18), 2.0L (M10B20), and 2.3L (M10B23).

Performance:

Early models (e.g., 316, 318) featured around 90-105 hp. Later models and performance variants (e.g., 320i, 323i) offered 100-145 hp, with excellent power-to-weight ratios and responsive acceleration for the era.

Engine Variants Power Torque:

316 (1.8L): ~90 hp; 318 (1.8L): ~98 hp; 320 (2.0L Carb): ~109 hp; 320i (2.0L EFI): ~115 hp; 323i (2.3L EFI): ~143 hp. Torque figures vary accordingly. Manual provides exact specifications for each.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (e.g., Solex Zenith, SU) for base models; Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection for 'i' models. The manual covers diagnosis and repair for both systems.

Engine Maintenance:

Includes procedures for valve adjustment, ignition timing, carburetor adjustment/rebuild, fuel injection system servicing, spark plug replacement, and engine compression testing.

Engine Cooling:

Pressurized coolant system with belt-driven water pump and radiator. Manual details radiator, thermostat, hoses, and coolant specifications.

Engine Codes Detail:

Details specific variants such as the M10B18 (1.8L), M10B20 (2.0L, including 320i with fuel injection), and M10B23 (2.3L, used in 323i). Covers differences in compression ratios, camshafts, and fuel delivery systems for each.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Getrag 4-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

Getrag 5-speed manual transmission (introduced later); ZF 3-speed automatic transmission.

Transmission Features:

Rear-wheel drive, robust and reliable transmissions. Manual covers clutch replacement, gearbox overhaul, driveshaft and universal joint servicing, and differential maintenance.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Dimensions:

Compact executive sedan dimensions. Length: ~4360 mm, Width: ~1630 mm, Height: ~1380 mm. Wheelbase: ~2560 mm. (Approximate values, may vary slightly by model variant).

Interior Dimensions:

Sporty, driver-focused cabin for four adults. Manual covers interior trim removal and installation for access to components.

Cargo Dimensions:

Moderate trunk capacity suitable for its class. Manual includes procedures for trunk lid repair and latch mechanism servicing.

Weights:

Curb weight typically ranges from 1100-1300 kg depending on engine and equipment. Manual provides specifications for jacking points and lifting procedures.

Towing Capacity:

Not designed for towing. Manual focuses on vehicle maintenance and repair, not towing specifications.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Era-appropriate safety standards. Early E21s predated standardized crash testing as known today. Focus on structural integrity and passive safety features of the time.

Active Features:

Powerful disc brakes (front) and typically drum brakes (rear) on most models; ABS was not commonly available. Manual details brake system maintenance, fluid specifications, and component replacement.

Passive Features:

Reinforced passenger cell, impact-absorbing steering column, safety glass. Manual covers door panel removal, seatbelt servicing, and interior trim for access to these components.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic analog instrumentation, optional radio/cassette player. Manual covers radio removal/installation and speaker wiring.

Driver Assistance:

No modern driver assistance systems. Focus on fundamental vehicle dynamics and driver engagement.

Connectivity:

N/A. Vehicles of this era did not feature digital connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Typical intervals: Oil change every 5,000-7,500 miles (or annually), spark plugs every 15,000-30,000 miles, coolant flush every 2 years, brake fluid flush every 2 years. Manual provides detailed tables for specific model years and engine variants.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended (check manual for exact specifications based on climate and engine variant). BMW Super Performance Oil or equivalent.

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual specifies BMW Blue or Green coolant compatibility.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on vehicle specification. Manual will detail the correct type and bleeding procedures.

Transmission Fluid Specification:

Manual: GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90). Automatic: ATF Dexron II or III. Manual specifies exact types and capacities.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II ATF or specific BMW hydraulic fluid. Manual will list the correct type and capacity.

Differential Fluid:

Hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W-90 or 75W-140 depending on type (limited slip or standard). Manual provides specific viscosity and API rating.

Known Issues:

Rust (wheel arches, sills, jacking points), electrical gremlins (older wiring), fuel line degradation, carburetor issues (sluggish idle, lean running), clutch master/slave cylinder leaks, differential whine, shock absorber wear, coolant leaks (hose connections, water pump).

Diagnostics:

Manual includes troubleshooting flowcharts for common problems, ignition timing adjustments, carburetor tuning procedures, fuel pressure testing (for injected models), and electrical system continuity checks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, founded in 1916, has a long history of engineering excellence, particularly in performance and luxury automobiles. The E21 continued this legacy, building upon the success of the Neue Klasse.

Model Evolution:

The E21 (1975-1983) was the first generation of the BMW 3 Series, succeeding the BMW 02 Series. It introduced a more modern monocoque chassis and a distinctive shark-nose design. It was succeeded by the E30 generation.

Key Design Elements:

The E21 is characterized by its 'shark nose' front end, independent front suspension, and semi-trailing arm rear suspension. It marked a significant step in BMW's design language and engineering.

Production Years:

1975-1983

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing) and South Africa.

Sales Figures:

Over 1.3 million units produced, solidifying the 3 Series as BMW's core model.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The 3 Series, starting with the E21, consistently received critical acclaim for its driving dynamics, often winning 'Car of the Year' awards in various categories and publications during its production run. It established BMW as a leader in the sport sedan market.

Ratings:

Praised for handling, performance, and build quality. Contemporary reviews highlighted its superior road manners compared to competitors.

Certifications:

N/A for manual itself. Vehicle compliance with safety and emissions standards of its era.