Market Segment:
Luxury Sport Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops specializing in BMW
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ
Vehicle Selling Points:
Performance, handling, build quality, driver-oriented interior, advanced engineering for its era
Value To Owner:
Empowers owners to maintain, diagnose, and repair their vehicle, saving on labor costs and preserving vehicle integrity
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission, driveline
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Engine management, ignition, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, climate control electronics, audio system, wiring diagrams
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, glass, doors, seats, bumpers, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment procedures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable for the era
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, tolerances, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on essential tools and special tools required for repairs
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
3.430 cc (3.4 Liters)
Horsepower:
208 hp @ 5,700 rpm
Torque:
225 lb-ft (305 Nm) @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Coolant Type:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue or Green, typically ethylene glycol based)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless System)
Transmission Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP-22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MTF LT-3 (or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 rated gear oil)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)
Length:
189.1 inches (4,803 mm)
Width:
69.4 inches (1,763 mm)
Height:
55.7 inches (1,415 mm)
Curb Weight Manual:
approx. 3,571 lbs (1,620 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
approx. 3,616 lbs (1,640 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
approx. 4,600 lbs (2,087 kg)
NHTSA Ratings Era:
Not directly comparable to modern NHTSA standards; focus on structural integrity and passive safety features of the era.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
Steering Ratio:
Power-assisted recirculating ball steering
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Body Construction:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette player with optional CD changer; various speaker configurations available.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control system (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) available on higher trims.
On Board Computer:
BMW's On-Board Computer (OBC) providing trip data, fuel consumption, and fault codes (via diagnostic port).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specific intervals)
Spark Plug Replacement:
15,000 - 30,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter
Engine Oil Viscosity:
15W-40 or 10W-40 (API SG or higher)
Coolant Capacity:
approx. 10.5 Liters (11.1 US Quarts)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Water pump, radiator hoses, thermostat, fuel pump, fuel injectors, mass airflow sensor, control arm bushings, sway bar links, idle control valve
Electrical Issues:
Wiring harness degradation (especially engine bay), OBC (On-Board Computer) pixelation, headlight switch failure
Engine M30 Characteristics:
Robust but can be prone to oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets; timing chain maintenance is critical.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on performance, engineering excellence, and driver engagement
E34 Generation:
Third generation of BMW's mid-size executive sedan, succeeding the E28. Marked a significant step in design and technology.
Design Era:
Early example of the 'aerodynamic' design language, contributing to reduced drag coefficient.
Production Years E34:
1987-1996
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (Dingolfing Plant)
Car And Driver 10 Best:
While the E34 generation received 'Car and Driver' 10 Best honors in subsequent years, the 1988 model laid the groundwork.
Contemporary Reviews:
Consistently praised for its driving dynamics, comfort, and build quality by automotive journalists of the era.
Iso Certification:
BMW's manufacturing processes would have adhered to relevant European quality standards of the time.
