Market Segment:
Compact executive sports sedan/coupe
Reputation:
Renowned for driving dynamics, build quality, and sporting heritage
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive, near 50/50 weight distribution, independent suspension, communicative steering
Engine Performance:
Smooth inline-six engine known for its responsiveness and torque band
Build Quality:
Typical BMW precision engineering and durable construction
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection and ignition systems (M1.3), sensors, actuators, troubleshooting
Drivetrain:
Clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), driveshaft, differential, axles
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering linkage
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs), ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinder
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, ignition, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic codes
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components and service
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, structural components, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Systematic fault finding for all major components, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components
Overhaul And Rebuild:
Complete procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Adjustment:
Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, clutch adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Horsepower:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
164 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M1.3 Fuel Injection and Ignition System
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 15W-50 (check specific owner's manual for climate variations)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 liters (5.8 US quarts) with filter change
Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Rear Axle Ratio:
Typically 3.73:1 for manual, 3.46:1 for automatic (check VIN for specifics)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil recommended
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid
Safety Standard:
Reflects 1980s automotive safety standards
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option
Traction Control:
Not typically available
Airbags:
Driver's airbag available as an option on later models, not standard on all 1989 models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in rear
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW approved CHF 11S or equivalent Pentosin hydraulic fluid
Common Wear Items:
Brake rotors/pads, control arm bushings, sway bar links, fuel pump, fuel injectors, coolant hoses, starter motor, window regulators
Engine Specifics:
Head gasket leaks (especially if overheated), oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, timing belt condition (critical - M20 is timing belt driven)
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on grounds, faulty door lock actuators, intermittent warning lights
Brand Focus:
German automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles
E30 Generation:
Second generation of the BMW 3 Series, produced from 1982 to 1994 (e30 chassis)
325I Introduction:
Introduced to offer a more potent inline-six engine compared to the 323i and 320i variants.
Updates For 1989:
The 1989 model year often falls into the 'late' E30 production, potentially including minor cosmetic or equipment updates compared to earlier models.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany
E30 Generation Acclaim:
The E30 generation as a whole is widely acclaimed for its timeless design and exceptional driving experience, often featured on 'best cars' lists.
Individual Model Awards:
While specific awards for the '1989 325i' are not prominently listed, the model lineage consistently received praise from automotive journalists for its performance and handling.
Historical Performance:
Consistently ranked high in its class for performance, handling, and build quality by contemporary automotive publications.
