Market Segment:
Compact Executive Sport Sedan
Brand Perception:
Performance, luxury, engineering excellence
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Volvo 240
Chassis Design:
Iconic E30 chassis, RWD biased, excellent balance and handling
Engine Characteristics:
Smooth inline-six power delivery, known for durability
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for precise steering and engaging driving experience
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing a classic BMW that demands meticulous care
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, timing, valve adjustments, lubrication system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, sensor diagnostics, emission controls
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, driveshaft, U-joints
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic gearbox overhaul, hydraulic control, torque converter, shift linkage
Suspension:
Front strut assembly, rear semi-trailing arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (depending on specific model variant), hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, accessories, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, structural components, rust repair, interior trim, glass, seals
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:
Blower motor, heater core, AC system (refrigerant handling, components)
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, evaporative emissions control
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, brake inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, and other common issues
Component Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding or replacing major components
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for certain procedures
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for various systems
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; suitable for full vehicle rebuilds and advanced diagnostics
Engine Code:
M20B27 (US Spec), M20B25 (Euro Spec)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2.7 liters (US, M20B27 eta), 2.5 liters (Euro and later US, M20B25)
Horsepower Us Spec B27:
Approximately 121 hp @ 4800 rpm (detuned for torque)
Torque Us Spec B27:
Approximately 170 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
Horsepower Euro Spec B25:
Approximately 170 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque Euro Spec B25:
Approximately 164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with knock sensor (Motronic controlled)
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, Convertible
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Length:
Approx. 170.3 inches (4325 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.3 inches (1709 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.5 inches (1384 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2800-3000 lbs (1270-1360 kg), varies by body style and options
Crash Test Data:
Limited formal ratings for this era; designed to meet contemporary safety standards
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional, especially on earlier models
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear
Head Restraints:
Adjustable front and rear head restraints
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type used)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 miles (check manual for specific plug type and interval)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Timing Belt Replacement:
The M20 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which is generally more durable but requires tensioner checks.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended for most conditions (check manual for precise spec and temperature range)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW SYNTRAN 75W-90 or equivalent GL-4 rated gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron II or III
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Fuel Injector Seals:
Can degrade and cause vacuum leaks or poor idle.
Heater Core:
Common failure leading to coolant leaks into the cabin, fogging windows.
Flexdisc Couplings:
Rubber driveshaft flexdiscs can crack and fail, causing clunking or vibration.
Rubber Bushings:
Suspension and subframe bushings wear out over time, affecting handling.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Prone to leaks due to age and material degradation.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', engineering prowess, and performance sedans
E30 Generation:
Second generation of the 3 Series, significant design and engineering advancements over E21
325I Introduction:
Introduced as a performance-oriented variant, replacing the 323i in many markets.
Production Years E30:
1982-1994 (globally)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa, and assembly in other regions
