Positioning:
Iconic homologation special, a pure driver's car that defined a generation of performance BMWs.
Contemporaries:
Porsche 944, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth, Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Alfa Romeo GTV6.
Aerodynamics:
Distinctive box flares, front air dam, rear spoiler designed for enhanced aerodynamic performance.
Handling:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and superb grip, particularly favored for track use and spirited driving.
Performance Focus:
Designed to homologate for Group A touring car racing, resulting in a chassis and engine tuned for outright performance.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, cooling, emissions
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 265) overhaul, clutch, driveshaft, differential
Chassis And Suspension:
Front/rear suspension, steering system, brakes (front/rear discs), wheel bearings
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, starter, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, instrument cluster
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, seating, HVAC system
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, hoses
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, error code interpretation (if applicable to specific manual version)
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Adjustment And Calibration:
Valve adjustment, ignition timing, throttle body synchronization (if applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications and component clearances.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 (DOHC, 16 valves)
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2302 cc)
Horsepower:
192 hp @ 6,900 rpm (U.S. Spec); 200 hp @ 6,900 rpm (Euro Spec)
Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (U.S. Spec); 177 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (Euro Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on later models, Distributor on earlier models.
Length:
Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in) (excluding flares), ~1700mm with flares
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2565 mm (100.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1200-1300 kg (2646-2866 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Varies by market and options, typically around 1700 kg.
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 420 Liters (14.8 cu ft)
Crash Testing:
Modern crash safety standards were less stringent; data from official NHTSA/IIHS may be limited or unavailable for this era.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - standard on most E30 M3 models.
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering.
Airbags:
Not standard; driver's side airbag became optional/standard on later models. Early models typically lack airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in the front and rear.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette stereo, often with optional CD player on later models. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Instrument Cluster:
Classic BMW analog gauges: speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, oil temperature, and engine condition lights.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) enhances braking control.
Cruise Control:
Optional on some models, controlled via a stalk on the steering column.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards. Connectivity was limited to basic audio systems.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult specific manual for exact interval.
Spark Plugs:
Recommend replacement every 30,000 miles, using high-quality platinum or iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid:
Flush and replace every 2 years to maintain optimal performance and prevent moisture absorption.
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50 synthetic oil recommended by BMW for the S14 engine, or as specified in the manual. Check API ratings.
Coolant:
BMW blue ethylene glycol coolant mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 synthetic. Consult manual for specific type and capacity.
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-140 synthetic, especially for LSD units. Consult manual.
Engine Oil Sludge:
Potential for oil sludge buildup in the S14 engine, especially with poor maintenance. Requires thorough cleaning during rebuilds.
Rod Bearings:
Early S14 engines are known to be susceptible to rod bearing failure if not properly maintained or if pushed too hard on low-quality oil.
Hesitation Or Stalling:
Can be caused by faulty fuel injectors, fuel pressure issues, or vacuum leaks in the intake system.
Suspension Wear:
Rubber bushings in the suspension and steering components can degrade over time, affecting handling and ride quality.
Rust:
Like many cars of this era, rust can be a significant issue, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and strut towers.
Bmw Motorsport Division:
Developed by BMW Motorsport GmbH to homologate the car for Group A touring car racing, directly influencing its performance characteristics.
Original Intent:
Created to compete with cars like the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth and Mercedes 190E 2.3-16, winning numerous championships.
Updates:
Evolved into the Evolution I and Evolution II models with increased power, revised aerodynamics, and lighter weight, followed by the limited Sport Evolution.
Production Volume:
Approximately 17,184 units produced across all E30 M3 variants (including Evo I, Evo II, Sport Evo, and convertible).
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
Motorsport Success:
Extensive success in racing series worldwide, including touring car championships like DTM, WTCC, and Trans-Am.
Performance Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, driver engagement, and motorsport pedigree.
Collectibility:
Highly sought-after collector car, recognized as one of the best driver's cars of the 1980s and a modern classic.
