Market Segment:
Luxury/Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Performance-oriented drivers, enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists
Competitors 1983:
Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 5000, Volvo 740
Vehicle Philosophy:
German engineering, driver engagement, build quality, sophisticated design
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their classic BMW, preserving its value and performance.
Engine:
M30B28 Engine, all mechanical and electrical aspects
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition system
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, heater core
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes
Transmission:
Getrag 4-speed manual and ZF 3HP22 3-speed automatic transmissions
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, axles
Suspension:
Front McPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, springs, shock absorbers, bushings
Steering:
Power-assisted recirculating ball steering system
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical System:
12-volt system, battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb specifications
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim, HVAC controls
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks and procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding charts
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems
Rebuild:
Engine, transmission, and differential rebuild procedures
Refurbish:
Procedures for restoring worn components and systems
Restoration:
Guidance for comprehensive vehicle restoration projects
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Factory-Level Detail
Detail Scope:
From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams, vacuum schematics, exploded views
Length:
4,735 mm (186.4 in)
Width:
1,700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
2,795 mm (110.0 in)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 1,480 kg (3,263 lbs)
Curb Weight Auto:
Approx. 1,510 kg (3,329 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1,950 kg (4,299 lbs)
Crash Test Ratings Era:
ERA-specific testing was less standardized; focus on robust chassis and passive safety of the era.
ABS:
Not standard, potentially optional on later E28 models but unlikely for '83 528i.
Seatbelts:
Standard 3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts
Crumple Zones:
Designed front and rear crumple zones for impact energy absorption
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (synthetic oil recommended for modern use)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (copper plugs); 60,000+ miles (platinum plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific temps)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Mounts:
Degradation of rubber engine and transmission mounts leading to vibration.
Fuel Lines:
Aging rubber fuel lines susceptible to cracking and leaks.
Wiring Harness:
Fraying or degradation of insulation in older wiring harnesses, particularly in the engine bay.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in control arm bushings and sway bar bushings causing handling issues.
Heater Core:
Leaking heater core, common in older vehicles of this era, leading to coolant loss and fogged windows.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW's legacy of sporty driving dynamics, engineering excellence, and premium quality.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation succeeded the E12 and was produced from 1981 to 1988. It represented a significant evolution in BMW's mid-size executive sedan line.
E28 Design Philosophy:
A more modern, aerodynamic design by Claus Luthe, building upon the E12's foundation with improved safety, comfort, and efficiency.
Production Years:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Mexico
E28 528I Introduction Year:
1981 (global), 1982 (North America)
Contemporary Reviews:
The E28 platform was consistently praised for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering, earning it a strong reputation in the executive sedan market.
Consumer Reports Era Mentions:
Likely received favorable mentions for performance and handling, with typical BMW caveats regarding maintenance costs.
Epa Fuel Economy City:
Approx. 16 MPG (US)
Epa Fuel Economy Highway:
Approx. 21 MPG (US)