Segment:
Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors Circa 1988:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi V8, Lexus LS 400 (emerging), Jaguar XJ.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned BMW handling, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis.
Build Quality:
High-quality materials and construction, typical of BMW engineering.
Design:
Clean, aerodynamic E34 chassis design by Claus Luthe.
Diy Support:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with factory-level repair knowledge.
Cost Savings:
Reduces reliance on expensive dealership service by enabling in-house repairs.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine management.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, clutch, driveshafts, differential.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system components, ABS (if equipped), hydraulic system, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter, alternator, lighting, instruments, onboard electronics.
Bodywork Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, common issue resolution.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic data, wiring diagrams.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Type 518:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement 518:
1.8 liters (1796 cc)
Bore X Stroke 518:
84.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Compression Ratio 518:
8.5:1
Horsepower 518:
105 PS (103 hp; 77 kW) @ 5800 rpm
Torque 518:
145 Nm (107 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Engine Code 518I:
M20B18 (with L-Jetronic fuel injection)
Engine Type 518I:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC, Fuel Injection
Horsepower 518I:
105 PS (103 hp; 77 kW) @ 5800 rpm (same as carbureted version, but improved response)
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection (518i) or Zenith carburetor (518)
0 60 Mph Approx:
12-13 seconds (depending on transmission and final drive)
Type Standard:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Type Optional:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch
Final Drive:
BMW's renowned limited-slip differential (optional, highly recommended)
Crash Test Era Note:
Vehicle safety standards were less rigorous in 1988; specific ratings may not be directly comparable to modern standards.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional on base models, standard on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Traction control (ASC/ASC+T) was not typically available on the 518/518i in this year.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag was an option, passenger airbag generally not available.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners were standard.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-24,000 miles) or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-36,000 miles) for standard plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SF, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 recommended for general use. Check manual for climate-specific grades.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 recommended.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or III automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Head Gasket Leaks:
M20 engines can be prone to head gasket failure if overheated. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Oil Pan Leaks:
Common for aged seals and gaskets to leak engine oil. Manual details seal replacement.
Cooling System Wear:
Radiator, hoses, and water pump can degrade with age. Manual provides testing and replacement procedures.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older vehicles can develop intermittent electrical issues; comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are crucial for troubleshooting.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, quality, and driver engagement.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation replaced the E28 5 Series and was introduced in 1987, with the 518 being an entry-level variant.
E34 Design Language:
Marked a significant shift towards a more aerodynamic and modern aesthetic compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant).
