Market Segment:
Entry-level luxury sport sedan/coupe segment. Known for engaging driving dynamics and premium build quality.
Key Competitors Era:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75/Milano, Acura Integra, Saab 900.
Vehicle Defining Features:
Rear-wheel drive, sophisticated independent suspension, balanced chassis, refined inline-six engine, driver-focused interior, robust construction.
Value To Owner:
Enables owners to perform routine maintenance and complex repairs themselves, saving significant costs and extending vehicle lifespan.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (including timing belt, valve adjustment), fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions control.
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (Getrag 260), Automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22), clutch system, drive shafts, differential.
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes (vented), rear disc brakes, parking brake, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped).
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting, wipers, horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics.
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering rack, power steering system.
Body Chassis:
Body construction, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals, chassis lubrication.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, belt inspection/replacement, tire rotation, lubrication.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, shock absorber replacement, fuel pump replacement, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement, radiator replacement, complete engine component repairs.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, fault code interpretation (where applicable), electrical troubleshooting guides.
Special Tools Procedures:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools for tasks like engine timing, bearing replacement, and suspension component removal.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and torque values.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Engine Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Est:
168-170 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (varies slightly by market and year)
Torque Est:
164-167 lb-ft @ 4000-4300 rpm (varies slightly by market and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection (Digital Engine Management)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260/5)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch
Drive Layout:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Differential:
Open Differential standard; Limited Slip Differential (LSD) often optional or found on M-Sport/performance variants.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 101.2 inches (2570 mm)
Length:
Approx. 170.5 inches (4330 mm) for Sedan/Coupe
Width:
Approx. 65.4 inches (1660 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm) for Sedan/Coupe
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 2800-3000 lbs (1270-1360 kg) depending on body style and options
Safety Ratings Era Context:
Safety standards were less stringent than today; focus on passive safety features of the era.
Active Safety Features Available:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Power-assisted brakes.
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced chassis, crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column, seat belts, integrated roll bar (convertible).
Infotainment Systems Available:
Basic analog gauges, factory-installed AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player, optional power antenna, optional equalizer.
Driver Assistance Features Available:
ABS (optional), Power steering.
Connectivity Features Available:
None by modern standards. Analog systems only.
Oil Change Interval Typical:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (recommendation based on era and usage).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 50,000-60,000 miles or 5 years, critical for the M20 engine.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended for most climates. Check manual for specific viscosity and approvals (e.g., BMW Longlife-98).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW coolant concentrate recommended.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific manual revision for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90). Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Common Wear Items:
Rubber bushings (control arms, sway bars), fuel pump, fuel injectors, O2 sensor, idle control valve, heater core, cooling system components (radiator, hoses, water pump), front strut mounts.
Engine Specific Concerns:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), head gasket leaks (rare but possible), oil pan gasket leaks.
Bmw Engineering Philosophy:
Known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, handling, and build quality.
E30 Platform Significance:
The E30 generation is highly regarded for its classic styling, compact size, and exceptional driving dynamics. It cemented BMW's reputation in the compact executive sport sedan class.
Production Period For 325I:
Introduced in 1985 as a successor to the 323i, produced until the E30 platform was phased out around 1991 in North America.
