Market Segment:
Performance Compact Sports Coupe/Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops specializing in BMW vehicles
Key Competitors:
Porsche 944, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16/2.5-16, Ford Sierra Cosworth, Audi Quattro
Design Philosophy:
Homologation special for racing, motorsport-derived technology, driver-focused ergonomics
Performance Focus:
Exceptional handling, braking, and acceleration for its era
Manual Value:
Essential for preserving and maintaining the E30 M3's unique capabilities
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, internal components, timing, valve train, oil system, cooling system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system (ECU, distributors, coils), fuel injection system (ECU, injectors, fuel pump, sensors), starting system, charging system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 265) repair, clutch system, driveline, driveshafts, differentials
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, anti-roll bars), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs), bushings
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (Bosch), hydraulic system, brake fluid, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, heater core
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis straightening, door mechanisms, glass replacement
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, climate control components
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, error code interpretation (where applicable)
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation
Diagnostics:
Engine diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, ABS system diagnostics
Torque Specifications:
Torque values for all critical fasteners and components
Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures
Electrical Schematics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced (includes troubleshooting charts and symptom-based diagnosis)
Rebuild Scope:
Full engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 DOHC
Displacement:
2302 cc (2.3 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
91 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1
Horsepower:
192 hp @ 6,900 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4,900 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic Injection and Ignition
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition (coil-on-plug in later S14 variants, but typically distributor for 1989 E30 M3)
Length:
4,330 mm (170.5 in)
Width:
1,680 mm (66.1 in)
Height:
1,370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2,565 mm (101.0 in)
Front Track:
1,430 mm (56.3 in)
Rear Track:
1,450 mm (57.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,200 kg (2,646 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs)
Front Suspension Type:
Independent, MacPherson struts, lower control arms, anti-roll bar
Rear Suspension Type:
Independent, semi-trailing arms, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Wheel Size:
15 x 7 inches (Standard)
Tire Size:
205/55 VR 15 (Standard)
Crash Test Data:
NHTSA ratings for E30 chassis apply, though M3 specific data is less prevalent. Generally considered robust for its era.
ABS:
Standard Bosch ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Brakes:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front, solid rear)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear
Driver Airbag:
Optional/Late Production (primarily driver's side if equipped)
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and body panels for improved rigidity and crash protection
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or annually (recommendation based on typical driving)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (NGK BKR6EK)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic 5W-40 or 5W-50 (BMW approval LL-98 or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 Liters (5.8 US Quarts) with filter
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) - 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil with Limited Slip Additive
Power Steering Fluid Type:
BMW ATF Dexron III or equivalent
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points due to stress.
Rod Bearings:
Wear and potential failure, especially if maintenance intervals are neglected.
Fuel Lines:
Degradation of rubber fuel lines leading to leaks.
Window Regulators:
Failure of manual or electric window mechanisms.
Heater Core:
Leaking heater core, often requiring dashboard removal.
Paint And Rust:
Prone to rust in common E30 areas like wheel arches, rocker panels, and battery tray.
Brand Positioning:
Luxury and performance automotive manufacturer with a strong motorsport pedigree.
Motorsport Basis:
Developed for Group A Touring Car racing homologation.
Chassis Basis:
Based on the standard BMW E30 3 Series chassis but significantly re-engineered for performance.
Aero Package:
Unique body kit including front air dam, side skirts, rear spoiler, and revised rear bumper for aerodynamic efficiency.
Production Years:
1986-1991
Production Location:
Munich, Germany
Production Volume:
Approx. 18,000 units (all variants combined)
Special Editions:
Evo I, Evo II, Sport Evolution (Evo III), Cecotto, Ravaglia