Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Brand Perception:
Renowned for sporty handling, build quality, and sophisticated engineering.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 80/Fox, Alfa Romeo Alfetta, Saab 900
Driving Dynamics:
MacPherson strut front suspension, semi-trailing arm rear suspension, near 50/50 weight distribution, providing excellent handling characteristics.
Design:
Iconic 'Hofmeister kink' in the C-pillar, clean lines, driver-focused interior, a departure from BMW's earlier, more angular designs.
Model Years Covered:
1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984
Type:
Workshop Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (Driveshafts, Differential)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear, Hydraulic System, Parking Brake)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System (Alternator, Regulator), Starting System (Starter Motor), Lighting System, Instrumentation, Ignition Switch, Fuses & Relays, Horn, Wiper/Washer System
Bodywork:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk Lid, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Bumpers
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Tune-Up Procedures, Fluid Level Checks & Replacements
Repair:
Engine Overhaul & Rebuilding, Transmission Repair & Rebuild, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Gearbox Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair, Body Panel Repair & Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Finding Charts, Common Problem Diagnosis for Engine, Electrical, and Mechanical Systems
Specifications:
Torque Specifications for all fasteners, Gap Specifications (e.g., spark plugs, points), Alignment Specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Quality:
High-resolution PDF, allowing for clear viewing and printing of all diagrams and text.
Searchability:
Searchable PDF text for quick access to specific information.
Print Readability:
Designed for clear printing, maintaining legibility of technical diagrams and instructions.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine Code:
M60 (for 323i models)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2315 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 76.8 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical for M60)
Horsepower Gross:
143 hp @ 5300 rpm (approximate, depending on market and specific M60 variant)
Torque Gross:
205 Nm (151 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based, breakerless electronic ignition
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled, thermostatically controlled
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 Quarts) with filter change
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual (Getrag 245/10)
Transmission Type:
3-speed ZF 3HP22 Automatic
Manual Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW approved gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent)
Crash Test Data:
As this vehicle predates standardized modern crash testing (e.g., NHTSA frontal/side impact), specific ratings are not readily available. However, BMW of the era focused on passive safety structures.
Brakes:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. ABS was not standard or widely available on early E21 models.
Seat Belts:
Standard front lap and shoulder belts.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved driver protection in frontal impacts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell.
Audio System:
Factory-fitted analog radio with cassette player was common, often with optional upgraded speakers.
Instrumentation:
Comprehensive analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature, oil pressure warning light, and ammeter/voltmeter.
Advanced Features:
N/A - This era of vehicle did not feature electronic driver assistance systems like traction control or cruise control as standard.
Connectivity Features:
N/A - No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were available.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Major Service Interval:
Recommended at 30,000-60,000 mile intervals for comprehensive checks and component replacements (e.g., belts, hoses, spark plugs).
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or better, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended for most conditions (check manual for exact seasonal recommendations).
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Idle Instability:
Can be caused by vacuum leaks, faulty idle control valve, or worn fuel injectors/pressure regulator.
Fuel System Concerns:
L-Jetronic system can be sensitive to dirt; fuel pump relays and cold start injectors are common failure points.
Rust Susceptibility:
Common areas include wheel wells, rocker panels, door bottoms, and jacking points. Thorough inspection and preventative rustproofing are key.
Electrical Gremlins:
Degraded wiring insulation, corroded connectors, and failing grounds can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings (control arm, sway bar) and ball joints are wear items that can affect handling and ride quality.
Founding:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, founded in 1916, originally producing aircraft engines.
Automotive Entry:
Began automotive production in the 1920s, establishing a reputation for performance and engineering excellence.
Predecessor:
BMW 2002 (E10), which established BMW's success in the compact sports sedan segment.
Introduction Of E21:
The E21 generation replaced the beloved 02 Series and marked BMW's entry into a more premium compact sedan category, adopting the '3 Series' nomenclature.
Engine Updates:
The 323i, introduced in 1977, was the first BMW to feature the new M60 2.3L SOHC inline-six engine, offering a significant performance upgrade over earlier 2.0L variants.
Production Period:
1975-1983 (for E21 chassis)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Munich, Germany, with potential for other global assembly plants.
Automotive Journalism:
The E21 generation, including the 323i, was generally praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated appeal, solidifying BMW's position in the premium compact segment.
Long Term Reliability:
While specific awards are not prevalent, the E21 is considered a well-built car with good longevity when properly maintained, reflecting BMW's engineering focus.
