Positioning:
Flagship grand tourer, positioned as a luxury coupe and convertible
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz SL, Jaguar XJS, Porsche 928
Design Philosophy:
Long hood, short deck, shark-nose front fascia, pop-up headlights, rear-wheel drive, emphasis on GT comfort and performance
Target Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking a powerful, luxurious, and stylish grand tourer
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management, transmission (automatic & manual), drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Basic electrical system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, climate control electronics, engine control modules (ECM), transmission control modules (TCM), anti-theft systems, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable to specific models within E31 range), body seals
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic fault codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnosis, component testing
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, bodywork repair
Technical Data:
Specifications, torque values, clearances, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, component locations
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for dealership technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Options:
3.0L V8 (M60B30), 4.0L V8 (M60B40), 4.4L V8 (M62B44), 5.4L V12 (M73B54)
Horsepower Range:
215 hp (M60B30) to 322 hp (M73B54)
Torque Range:
290 Nm (M60B30) to 490 Nm (M73B54)
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic engine management with multi-point fuel injection
ECU Models:
MS41.0 (M50/M60), MS43.0 (M52/M62), DME MS70 (M73)
Type:
Pressurized liquid-cooled system
Transmission Options:
5-speed automatic (e.g., 5HP30, 5HP18), 6-speed manual (available on some V8 models)
Optional Transmission:
6-speed manual (e.g., GS6-37BZ)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, sport mode, limp-home function
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Typically ATF Dexron III or equivalent (consult manual for exact BMW specification)
Length:
Approx. 4,700-4,780 mm (185-188 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,800 mm (70.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,300-1,370 mm (51.2-53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,630 mm (103.5 in)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1,600-1,800 kg (3,527-3,968 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 2,200-2,400 kg
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 360-400 liters (12.7-14.1 cu ft)
Crash Test Data:
Limited public data from era; BMW's general reputation for robust construction. Manual would detail structural integrity and repair.
Driver Assistance:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) available on later models
Restraints:
Driver and passenger airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Stability:
Advanced multi-link suspension for stability and ride comfort
Audio System:
BMW Bavaria C Professional RDS, optional CD changer, premium sound systems (e.g., Nakamichi, Harman Kardon)
Navigation:
Early GPS navigation systems (BMW Navigation System Professional)
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) introduced later in production run
Early Telematics:
BMW Assist (early version of telematics and roadside assistance)
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control, optional heated and ventilated seats
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, as per Condition Based Service (CBS) or manual recommendations.
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs, coolant, transmission fluid, differential fluid typically at 50,000-100,000 mile intervals. Manual provides precise intervals.
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-98 or Longlife-01 compliant synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate and engine variant. Manual specifies exact viscosity and quantity.
Coolant Spec:
BMW Blue coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 (e.g., Pentosin DOT 4 LV)
Common Problems:
DME failure, window regulator issues, cooling system leaks (especially on V12), VANOS unit problems (on M60/M62), EML light illumination, aged wiring harnesses, seat cooling failures, complex electrical systems
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection of cooling hoses, vacuum lines, and electrical connectors is crucial. Early diagnosis of EML or check engine lights is recommended.
Oil Filter:
Example for M62: Mann-Filter HU 925/4x, Mahle KL 145/1 (Manual will have exact OE and aftermarket numbers)
Air Filter:
Example for M62: Mann-Filter C 37 211/2 (Manual will have exact OE and aftermarket numbers)
Brand Focus:
Renowned for engineering excellence, performance sedans, and luxury vehicles
E31 Development:
Developed as BMW's flagship coupe to compete with established luxury GTs, featuring advanced technology for its time
Design Language:
Penned by Klaus Kapitza, a distinctive 'shark nose' and aerodynamically efficient design
Production Period:
1989-1999
Production Volume:
Relatively low, around 30,620 units, contributing to its exclusivity
Variants:
840Ci, 850i, 850CSi (limited production performance variant)
Automotive Press:
Received positive reviews for styling, performance, and luxury from automotive publications of the era, though often criticized for its price and complexity.
Market Perception:
Considered a modern classic and a desirable luxury GT
Engineering Awards:
Not specifically noted, but the V12 engine was praised for its smoothness and engineering.
