Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible (E30 generation)
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra, Peugeot 405
Vehicle Strengths:
Renowned BMW driving dynamics, robust engineering, classic styling, reliable powertrain options, excellent build quality for its era.
Benefit To Owner:
Enables owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and carry out repairs themselves, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.
Mechanical Systems:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drive Axles, Steering System, Suspension System (Front & Rear), Brake System (Hydraulic & Parking), Wheels & Tires
Electrical Systems:
Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Audio System, Basic Control Modules (e.g., ECU, ABS)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, belt inspection/replacement, tune-up procedures
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul (partial/full), cylinder head removal/installation, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft/bearing service, transmission removal/installation/rebuild, clutch replacement, brake caliper/rotor/pad replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings), steering rack replacement, fuel injector service/replacement, cooling system component replacement (radiator, water pump)
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic flowcharts, common fault diagnosis for engine and ancillary systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance, diagnostics, and complete repair procedures suitable for professional mechanics and skilled DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code Typical:
M40B16 (for 316i)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement Cc:
1596 cc (1.6 Liters)
Horsepower Ps:
~73-75 PS (approx. 72-74 bhp) for M40B16
Torque Nm:
~120-125 Nm (approx. 89-92 lb-ft) for M40B16
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch LE-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Configuration:
Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter (standard on most models for these years)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 3HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated (for manual transmission)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron II (or equivalent)
Body Styles:
2-door Sedan (E30), 4-door Sedan (E30), 2-door Convertible (E30)
Wheelbase Mm:
2565 mm (approx.)
Length Mm:
4347 mm (approx. for 2-door sedan)
Width Mm:
1678 mm (approx.)
Height Mm:
1380 mm (approx. for 2-door sedan)
Curb Weight Kg:
~1150-1250 kg (depending on body style and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
Approx. 1600-1700 kg
Standard Wheel Size:
14-inch or 15-inch alloy or steel wheels
Standard Tire Size:
185/65R14 or 195/60R14
Crash Test Results:
ERA specific safety standards; later models incorporated side impact protection. Comprehensive Euro NCAP ratings not available for this specific generation but generally considered robust for its time.
Braking System:
Front: Ventilated Discs; Rear: Drums or Discs (depending on specific variant and options)
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on later or higher-spec variants.
Airbags:
Driver airbag typically optional or introduced later in the production run for this specific model. Passenger airbag uncommon.
Seat Belts:
Front 3-point inertia reel seatbelts, rear lap or lap-and-diagonal belts.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems available. Speaker configuration varies by model and options.
Instrumentation:
Analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature, and oil pressure (on some models). Warning lights for various systems.
Cruise Control:
Optional on some models.
Limited Electronic Features:
Focus on mechanical systems; electronic aids were minimal compared to modern vehicles.
Connectivity Features:
None (vehicle predates widespread automotive connectivity)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For M40 engines, timing belt replacement recommended every 50,000 - 60,000 km (30,000 - 37,000 miles) or 3-4 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or SAE 15W-40 (check manual for specific recommendations based on climate).
Coolant Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water, typically 50/50).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel pump failures, differential bushings wear, door seal degradation, rust (especially wheel arches, sills, and strut towers), oil leaks from engine seals, idle control valve issues on fuel-injected models, timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule).
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter W 917/1, Bosch 0 986 452 027 (verify for specific engine variant)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter C 2524, Mahle LX 27 (verify for specific engine variant)
Bmw History:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German luxury and premium automobile manufacturer, renowned for its focus on driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine'), engineering excellence, and sporty performance across its range.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the popular E21. It cemented BMW's reputation in the compact executive segment with its balanced chassis, responsive engines, and improved practicality.
E30 Variants:
The E30 range included 316, 318, 320, 323, 325, and the iconic M3. The 316 and 316i represented the entry-level models, offering a more accessible entry point into BMW ownership.
Production Years:
E30 generation: 1982-1994 (including facelifted models). Specific 316/316i covered: 1988-1991.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some assembly also occurring in South Africa, Mexico, and Austria.
E30 Generation Acclaim:
The E30 3 Series as a whole is widely regarded as a modern classic and one of BMW's most iconic generations, praised for its driving purity and enduring design. Various automotive publications have historically lauded its handling and build quality.
Bmw Brand Acclaim:
BMW has consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction surveys and received numerous awards for performance, engineering, and design across its model lineup throughout its history.
