Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sports Coupe
Enthusiast Status:
Highly sought-after homologation special, iconic status
Key Rivals:
Porsche 944, Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16
Design Origin:
Touring car homologation special derived from the E30 3 Series platform
Aerodynamics:
Distinctive front air dam, rear spoiler, and side skirts
Chassis Enhancements:
Wider track, revised suspension geometry, M-specific chassis bracing
Engine:
S14B23 2.3L Inline-4 DOHC 16-valve
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic M1.3 Fuel Injection, Fuel Pump, Injectors, Pressure Regulator
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition, Spark Plugs, Coils, Ignition Control Module
Cooling System:
Radiator, Fan, Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses, Coolant Specifications
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Oxygen Sensor
Transmission:
Getrag 265 5-speed Manual Transmission
Clutch:
Clutch Assembly, Flywheel, Master/Slave Cylinders, Hydraulic Lines
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, Universal Joints, Rear Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front McPherson Struts, Rear Independent Suspension, Control Arms, Bushings, Sway Bars
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Rack, Tie Rods, Steering Column
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Calipers, Master Cylinder, Fluid Specifications
Electrical System:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams
Lighting System:
Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lights, Turn Signals
Interior:
Dashboard, Seats, Trim Panels, HVAC Controls
Bodywork:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Aerodynamics
HVAC:
Air Conditioning System, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Controls
Maintenance:
Routine Service, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Changes, Brake Fluid Flush
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Common Issues, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing
Specifications:
Torque Values, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics
Troubleshooting:
System-by-system fault finding guides
Depth:
In-depth, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, and technical explanations
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
Displacement:
2302 cc (2.3 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
91 mm x 87 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
218 hp (163 kW) @ 6750 rpm (European spec)
Torque:
230 Nm (170 lb-ft) @ 4750 rpm (European spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M1.3 Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (91+ Octane)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DIS)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for exact recommendation)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on plug type
Timing Belt Replacement:
S14 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt. Refer to manual for inspection.
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 Liters (5.8 US Quarts)
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50 recommended for performance use (check manual for specific BMW approvals)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High-Temperature Brake Fluid
Engine Wear:
Potential for valve guide wear, VANOS issues (though S14 is not VANOS, early E30 engines had some issues), oil consumption
Suspension Bushings:
Wear on control arm bushings, rear trailing arm bushings
Rust:
Common E30 vulnerability, especially around wheel arches, rocker panels, and sunroof
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent issues
Clutch Release Bearing:
Can be a wear item