Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned BMW handling, rear-wheel drive, independent suspension.
Build Quality:
German engineering and high-quality materials typical of BMW.
Manual Utility:
Essential for DIY mechanics and enthusiasts seeking to maintain or repair their classic E30 318i.
Powertrain:
Engine (M10B18), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual/Automatic), Clutch, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front/Rear Disc)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, ECU (Motronic)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Bumpers, Seals
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (if equipped)
Maintenance:
Routine Service, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Overhauls, Rebuilds
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Fault Code Interpretation (for Motronic system)
Adjustments:
Valve Adjustments, Carburetor/Injection Adjustments, Wheel Alignment
Specifications:
Torque Values, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Resistance
Bodywork Repair:
Procedures for panel alignment, door adjustments, glass replacement, and trim removal.
Engine Mechanical:
Cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, timing chain service.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits, component testing procedures, troubleshooting guides for common electrical faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
101 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
107 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (or potentially Keihin carburetors in some markets, though injection is common for 'i' models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (Octane Rating: 91 RON / 87 AKI)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Bosch Motronic)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 3HP22)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or similar, refer to manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent, consult manual)
Length:
Approx. 4325 mm (170.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150 kg (2535 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, consult manual
Crash Test Data:
Limited comprehensive crash data available for this era; emphasis on driver control and passive safety for the time.
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear: Solid Disc Brakes. Power assisted.
Suspension:
Independent front suspension (MacPherson struts), Independent rear semi-trailing arm suspension for excellent road holding.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts (front), Lap belts (rear typical).
Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM/Cassette stereo system. Speakers typically in doors and rear deck. Aftermarket upgrades common.
Cruise Control:
Optional feature on some models.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option, becoming more standard on later E30s.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB, smartphone integration) as standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era, consult manual for specific recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
M10 engine uses a timing chain, which is generally maintenance-free unless there are specific issues like rattle.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (depending on climate, consult manual)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Genuine Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron II/III.
Engine Wear:
Valve stem seals can degrade leading to oil consumption; M10 engines are generally robust but can suffer from typical older engine issues like oil leaks.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; hoses can degrade.
Electrical:
Corrosion in connectors, failing dashboard illumination, Motronic ECU issues (less common than later models).
Suspension:
Worn bushings (control arm, sway bar), strut mounts, and rear trailing arm bushings are common wear items.
Rust:
Common E30 rust points include wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray area, and trunk floor.
Fuel Injection Cleaning:
Regular cleaning of fuel injectors and throttle body is recommended for optimal performance.
Brand Focus:
BMW's legacy of producing sporty, driver-focused luxury vehicles.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 platform, launched in 1982, replaced the E21 3 Series and established a new benchmark for compact executive cars.
E30 Generations:
The 1986 model year represents the earlier phase of the E30's lifecycle, before significant styling updates.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing Plant)
E30 Total Production:
1982-1991
Automotive Press:
The E30 generation, in its various forms, was consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and build quality, often winning comparison tests against rivals.
Reliability Perception:
While requiring diligent maintenance, the M10 engine is known for its longevity and robust nature when properly cared for. Overall E30 reliability is good but requires proactive attention to wear items.
