E30 Significance:
The E30 3-Series cemented BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, robust, and luxurious compact executive cars. The 320i was a popular entry-level model in many markets, offering the signature BMW driving experience.
Contemporaries:
Competed against models like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and various sporty sedans from brands like Alfa Romeo and Ford.
E30 Dna:
Balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, refined inline-six engines (though 320i uses an inline-four), quality interior materials, and sporty design.
Target Audience:
Ideal for BMW E30 owners, independent repair shops, and automotive enthusiasts looking for detailed service and repair information for the 320i variant.
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (Bosch LE-Jetronic), exhaust system, engine management.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 260) overhaul, clutch, driveshaft, differential, automatic transmission (optional, if applicable to 320i E30 in specified years) overhaul.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (if equipped), parking brake, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped).
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering linkage.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition system, starting system, charging system, instruments, gauges, interior electronics, fuse box layout.
Bodywork:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, interior trim, body repair procedures.
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, coolant flush, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, brake pad replacement, fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues, starting difficulties.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, timing settings, alignment data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics.
Detail Level:
Detailed exploded views, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
1990 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 99.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
129 PS (127 hp; 95 kW) @ 5800 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
174 Nm (128 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch LE-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91-98)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition System (e.g., Bosch Motronic M1.3, depending on year)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Manual Gearbox Code:
Getrag 260
Automatic Transmission Available:
Yes (typically 4-speed Automatic, ZF 4HP22)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (GL-4 rated, 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent
Crash Test Standards:
E30 models predate modern rigorous crash testing standards, but built to robust European safety standards of the era.
ABS:
Optional on some 320i models, particularly later production years.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag typically optional or unavailable on early E30s, may have been introduced on later models.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts front and rear.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for improved impact absorption.
Audio System:
Factory original cassette player or AM/FM radio, often with optional amplifier. Later models might have CD compatibility. Manual will cover diagnostics and speaker replacement.
ABS:
Optional ABS system troubleshooting and component identification.
E30 Era Tech:
Limited by modern standards. Focus is on mechanical and basic electrical systems. Manual may cover power windows, mirrors, and central locking if equipped.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for M20 engine. Interval usually around 60,000 miles or 4-5 years. Manual will specify precise interval and procedure.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent (e.g., 5W-40, 10W-40 depending on climate).
Coolant Type:
Glysantin G48 (blue) or equivalent; BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (preferred) or DOT 3.
Common E30 Issues:
Flex disc (guibo) wear, coolant leaks (especially thermostat housing and water pump seals), seized heater control valves, fuel pump failures, rust in common E30 areas (wheel arches, rocker panels), timing belt failure on M20 if not replaced on schedule.
320I Specific Issues:
M20B20 engine can be slightly underpowered for some, but generally robust if maintained. Fuel injection system requires periodic checks.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's legacy is built on performance, luxury, and engineering excellence. The 'Neue Klasse' and subsequent models like the E21 and E30 solidified this reputation.
E30 Lineage:
The E30 (produced 1982-1994) succeeded the E21 and introduced significant advancements, becoming one of BMW's most iconic and best-selling generations. The 320i was a core model within the E30 range.
Production Period:
1982-1994 (E30 generation), 320i variant covered 1987-1991.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some production in other countries.
