Segment:
Luxury Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Professionals, executives, driving enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W123 E-Class, Audi 100, Jaguar XJ
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced handling, rear-wheel drive chassis, and driver-focused cockpit
Build Quality:
Exceptional build quality and durability, characteristic of BMW's engineering at the time
Powertrain:
Smooth and powerful M30 inline-six engine known for its longevity
Engine:
M30B25 inline-six engine (2.5L)
Transmission:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual, ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated discs, Rear: Solid discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Suspension:
Front: MacPherson struts with independent trailing arms, Rear: Semi-trailing arms with independent suspension
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component locations, troubleshooting for lighting, ignition, fuel injection, instrumentation
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnostics and repair
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, fluid specifications
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, pipe routing
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, troubleshooting
Chassis:
Body and frame construction, rust repair, underbody components
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components and service
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks, lubrication points
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical diagnostics
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing major components and sub-assemblies
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, alignment data
Electrical Diagnostics:
Schematic interpretation, voltage drop testing, signal tracing
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86 mm x 71.8 mm
Horsepower:
150 PS (148 bhp; 110 kW) at 5500 rpm
Torque:
205 N·m (151 lb·ft) at 3500 rpm
Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic (L-Jetronic, Motronic for later models, check specific chassis)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.7 Liters (6.0 US quarts) with filter
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-40 or 15W-40, depending on climate
Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic
Manual Gear Ratios:
Check manual for specific ratios (e.g., 3.71, 2.13, 1.42, 1.00, 0.81)
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter, sport/economy modes
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Length:
Approx. 4700 mm (185 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450 kg (3197 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Check vehicle specific plate
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120mm
Standard Tire Size:
195/70VR14 or 205/60VR14
Crash Test Data:
Limited data available for this era; focus on inherent structural integrity and passive safety features.
ABS:
Available on some models, standard on later E28 variants
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, likely lap belts in rear (check specific configuration)
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column designed to absorb impact energy
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage and crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engine uses a timing chain, requiring inspection for stretch and tensioner wear, not a replacement interval.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant:
50/50 mix of BMW blue coolant (or equivalent) and distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, plastic expansion tank failure, coolant hose degradation
Electrical System:
Failing fuel pump relay, worn injector seals, brittle wiring insulation, headlight switch issues
Fuel System:
Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pump, worn fuel pressure regulator
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, ball joints, shock absorber failure
Exhaust:
Corrosion and leaks in exhaust system components
Body:
Rust, particularly around wheel arches, rocker panels, and sunroofs
