Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts seeking detailed information
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair data, replacing multiple physical manuals, cost-effective for DIY repairs.
Digital Convenience:
Single PDF format, easily printable, zoomable images, searchable content (likely).
Accuracy:
Vehicle-specific, dealership-used information, not generic.
Completeness:
A-Z coverage of all models and repairs.
Primary Focus:
Service and Repair
Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (specific number not provided, but implied to be comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac
Printability:
Yes, all pages printable
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair
Engine Control:
Fuel system, emission control, ignition system, starting system, charging system
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch, transfer case (if applicable), propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axles
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering column, power steering system
Brakes:
Brake control systems, hydraulic brakes, parking brake
Wheels Tires:
Tire and wheel service, specifications
Cooling Lubrication:
Cooling system service, lubrication system service
Electrical Body:
Complete electrical system, wiring schematics, interior and exterior trim, doors, locks, lighting, instruments, HVAC
Comfort Convenience:
Air conditioning, cruise control, seat belts, supplementary restraint systems (SRS - if applicable), wiper/washer system, horn
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding
Specifications:
Torque specifications, fluid types and capacities, clearances, electrical values
Wiring Schematics:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Factory-level, dealership technician quality, comprehensive from basic to advanced repairs
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within PDF, though not explicitly stated
Resolution:
High-resolution digital reproduction of factory documents
Illustration Quality:
Clear diagrams and illustrations suitable for printing
Binding Type:
Not applicable (digital format)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (digital format), printable on user's choice of paper
Engine Options E23:
Likely includes M30 series inline-six engines (e.g., 732i, 735i, 745i)
Displacement E23:
Ranges typically from 3.2L to 4.0L depending on specific model variant (e.g., 732i, 735i, 745i)
Horsepower E23:
Varies by engine, typically 197 hp to 252 hp for the M30 engines offered.
Torque E23:
Varies by engine, typically 210 lb-ft to 270 lb-ft for the M30 engines offered.
Fuel Injection Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection systems
Manual Transmission Availability:
Available on certain models (e.g., Getrag 4 or 5-speed)
Automatic Transmission Availability:
Standard on many models or a common option (e.g., ZF 3 or 4-speed automatic)
Transmission Control:
Hydromechanical or electronic control depending on transmission type
Wheelbase E23:
Approximately 116.5 inches (2960 mm)
Length E23:
Approximately 199.8 inches (5075 mm)
Width E23:
Approximately 70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height E23:
Approximately 54.1 inches (1374 mm)
Curb Weight E23:
Approximately 3600-3900 lbs (1630-1770 kg) depending on configuration
Crash Test Era:
Vehicle safety standards of the early 1980s; specific ratings may be limited.
ABS Availability:
Optional on some models, becoming more common as the E23 generation progressed.
Traction Control Availability:
Not typically available on E23 models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts front and rear
Airbags:
Driver airbag became available later in the E23 lifecycle, but not standard for 1981.
Audio System:
Factory installed radio with AM/FM, cassette player.
Display Technology:
Basic analog gauges and indicator lights.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system available on many models.
Multiplex Can Communication:
Not present in the modern CAN bus sense; electrical systems are more discrete.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and specific oil used.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs and ignition system checks/replacements typically around 30,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90
Fuel System Common:
Fuel distributor, injector seals, fuel pump issues with age.
Electrical Common:
Wiring harness degradation, alternator, starter issues, fuse box corrosion.
Cooling System Common:
Radiator leaks, thermostat failure, water pump seal leaks.
Suspension Common:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers, and strut mounts.
Bmw Philosophy:
Focus on 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', blending performance, luxury, and advanced engineering.
E23 Introduction:
Introduced in 1977 as the successor to the E12 5 Series and the predecessor to the E32 7 Series.
E23 Facelift:
The 1981 model year is part of the pre-facelift E23 range. Facelifts typically occurred mid-generation.
Production Years:
1977-1986
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
