🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Generation:

E30

Model Year:

1991

Chassis Code:

E30

Engine Code:

S14

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW E30 M3 is a legendary homologation special, a highly sought-after performance variant of the iconic E30 chassis, aimed at enthusiasts and collectors.

Competitors 1991:

Competed with performance coupes of its era such as the Porsche 911 (964), Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione, and Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16/2.5-16.

Design Philosophy:

Developed for motorsport homologation, featuring wider track, flared fenders, revised suspension geometry, and a potent naturally aspirated engine.

Aerodynamics:

Distinctive front air dam, rear spoiler, and box flares for improved aerodynamics and stability at high speeds.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, direct steering, and engaging driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Full service, repair, and diagnostic instructions for the BMW E30 M3 (1991 model year).

Pages:

Extensive (precise count not provided, but implies comprehensive coverage typical of workshop manuals).

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed (traditional workshop manual format) or digital (PDF) depending on the specific product offering.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition, exhaust systems.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 265), clutch system, driveshafts, differential.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems (including ABS if equipped), hydraulic circuits, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, steering system, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrumentation, ECUs.

Bodywork:

Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, body sealing.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation and service.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, common issues and their resolutions.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.

Rebuild:

Comprehensive engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and clearances.

Alignment:

Wheel alignment specifications and procedures.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) information and troubleshooting for engine management.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High resolution, clear diagrams and text (assuming a professionally produced manual).

Searchability:

Likely searchable if in PDF format, allowing for quick access to specific topics.

Print Quality:

Professional, typically with durable paper and clear, legible printing for workshop use.

Binding:

Spiral-bound or sturdy comb binding often preferred for workshop manuals to lay flat.

Paper:

Durable, often matte finish paper to reduce glare in workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated, DOHC, 16-valve

Engine Code:

S14

Displacement:

2.3 Liters (2302 cc)

Horsepower:

192 hp @ 6,900 rpm (US Spec), 200 hp @ 6,900 rpm (Euro Spec)

Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (US Spec), 170 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (Euro Spec)

Redline:

7,250 rpm

Injection System:

Bosch Motronic ML 1.3 Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

91 mm x 84 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Model:

Getrag 265

Optional Transmission:

None (M3 was exclusively manual transmission).

Gear Ratios Final Drive:

Specific ratios for the Getrag 265 and final drive vary but are optimized for performance. Often 3.15:1 or similar.

Fluid Type:

BMW recommends specific manual transmission fluid (e.g., ATF Dexron II/III or equivalent specialized gear oil). Consult manual for exact part numbers.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4415 mm (173.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2565 mm (101 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1200 kg (2646 lbs)

Gross Weight:

Varies by specification.

Wheel Size:

15-inch alloy wheels (standard), 16-inch optional.

Tire Size:

Front: 205/50 VR 15, Rear: 225/45 VR 15 (typical standard fitment).

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test History:

While specific ratings for the 1991 E30 M3 might not align with modern standards, the E30 platform was known for its robust safety cage and chassis design for its era. Testing was less standardized then.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an option or standard on later models, including the 1991 M3.

Braking System:

Powerful front and rear disc brakes, often with larger rotors and calipers compared to standard E30 models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag may have been standard or optional depending on market and specific build date.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts, often with pre-tensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis, safety crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Period-appropriate BMW Bavaria C Business or Professional cassette radio, often with optional CD changer input.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (ASR) was introduced on some later E30 models, including the M3, to manage wheelspin.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle performance and driver engagement.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically at 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type. Consult manual.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The S14 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt. However, tensioners and guides should be inspected and potentially replaced during major overhauls.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.5 liters (5.8 US quarts) with filter. Consult manual for exact capacity and viscosity grade (e.g., 15W-50 or 20W-50 may be recommended for performance use).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant (BMW Blue or equivalent).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1 if specified) brake fluid.

Engine Mounts:

Worn engine mounts can lead to vibration and poor engine support.

Fuel Pump:

Original fuel pumps can degrade over time, leading to fuel delivery issues.

Rust:

Common areas for rust include wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, and sunroof areas.

Suspension Bushings:

Rubber suspension bushings wear out, affecting handling and ride quality.

Clutch Replacement:

Clutch wear is dependent on driving style, but is a common repair item.

Exhaust System:

Original exhaust components can corrode and require replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport:

The M3 badge signifies BMW's in-house motorsport division, known for creating high-performance versions of BMW production cars.

E30 M3 Development:

The E30 M3 was born out of the need to homologate a car for Group A Touring Car racing. It featured significant mechanical and aerodynamic enhancements over the standard E30.

Production Years:

1986–1991

Production Variants:

Includes Evolution models (e.g., Evo I, Evo II, Sport Evolution) with increased power and chassis refinements.

Manufacture Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorsport Success:

The E30 M3 achieved significant success in various motorsport series, including touring car championships worldwide, solidifying its legendary status.

Enthusiast Appreciation:

Consistently ranked as one of the greatest driver's cars and most collectible BMWs of all time by automotive publications.

Homologation Status:

Developed as a homologation special for Group A racing regulations, which mandated production car basis.