Era Icon:
The E30 M3 is a legendary homologation special, celebrated for its motorsport heritage and exceptional driving dynamics.
Competitors:
Porsche 944, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth, Ford Sierra RS Cosworth
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and responsive engine, making it a driver's car.
Motorsport Heritage:
Developed directly from BMW's successful DTM racing program.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical, Fuel, Cooling, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, timing belt/chain, piston/ring inspection, valve train, crankshaft/rod bearings, cylinder head
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, sensors, actuators, diagnostic procedures
Drivetrain:
Clutch, gearbox (Getrag 265), driveshafts, differential, limited-slip differential (optional)
Suspension:
Front struts, rear semi-trailing arms, control arms, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, caliper overhaul, rotor replacement
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, ECU diagnosis
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulation
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, fan, coolant specifications
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant types
Bodywork And Interior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat removal, glass replacement
Maintenance:
Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, fault code reading (where applicable), component testing
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system refurbishment
Installation Adjustment:
Component installation, alignment adjustments, clutch adjustment, valve clearance adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2302 cc)
Horsepower:
192 hp @ 6,500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Injection (ML-S1)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Bore X Stroke:
91 mm x 87 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valve Train:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (S14 is a chain-driven engine)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic 10W-40 or 15W-50 (check manual for specific BMW approvals)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent 50/50 mix with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW ATF Dexron II or III
Engine Oil Consumption:
S14 engines can consume oil; regular checks are crucial.
Rear Subframe Mounts:
Can crack due to stress; often reinforced during restoration.
Bushings:
Age-related wear on suspension and drivetrain bushings is common.
Rust:
Common rust areas include wheel arches, sills, and battery trays.
Bmw Motorsport Division:
The M3 is a direct product of BMW's extensive motorsport engineering and success.
E30 Generation:
The E30 M3 was a radical departure, featuring a unique body kit, wider track, and a specialized high-revving engine, unlike other E30 models.
Homologation Special:
Built to homologate the E30 for Group A Touring Car racing, leading to its distinct body panels (fenders, spoilers).
Production Years E30 M3:
1986-1991
Total Production E30 M3:
Over 17,000 units worldwide.
Key Variants:
Evolution I, Evolution II, Sport Evolution, Cecotto, Ravaglia
