Target Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking sophisticated design, advanced engineering, and premium comfort.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140), Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS 400.
Design Philosophy:
Bavarian Motor Works' characteristic blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology.
Body Styles:
Standard wheelbase (735i) and long wheelbase (735iL) offering increased rear passenger legroom.
Major Topics Covered:
Full Service and Repair Instructions
Estimated Page Count:
High (Typical for comprehensive workshop manuals, likely 1000+ pages across multiple volumes or a very large single volume)
Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Likely Digital (PDF), possibly also available in printed format.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection (Motronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust systems.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission service, repair, and diagnostics; potentially manual transmission if applicable.
Drivetrain Systems:
Driveshafts, differentials, rear axle assembly.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brakes (likely disc), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) service and repair.
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, wheel alignment.
Electrical Systems:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starting system, battery, control modules.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection.
HVAC System:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service and repair.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement, suspension repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, fault codes interpretation (if applicable).
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for various vehicle systems.
Technical Data Tables:
Specifications, tolerances, torque values, electrical data.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive - suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed disassembly, assembly, and diagnostic procedures.
Digital Format:
PDF (Searchable text is highly desirable for digital versions)
Print Quality:
High resolution for clear diagrams and text (for printed versions).
Binding Type:
Professional binding (e.g., perfect bound, spiral bound) for durability in workshop environments (for printed versions).
Paper Type:
Durable, gloss or semi-gloss paper for longevity (for printed versions).
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3430 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.5:1 (depending on market/spec)
Horsepower:
Approx. 208 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 224 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M1.3 Fuel Injection and Ignition Control
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium - 91+ octane recommended)
Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (Approx. 6.9 US Quarts)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 12.0 Liters (12.7 US Quarts)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP-22)
Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 265/5, less common in North America)
Automatic Modes:
Standard and Sport modes
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent spec specified by BMW)
Crash Test Results:
No extensive official crash test data available from modern agencies like NHTSA or IIHS for this specific model year and region, but designed to high safety standards of the era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional/later addition.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts front and rear.
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones.
Audio System:
Premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon) available, cassette player standard.
Navigation:
Optional early-generation GPS navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Rear park distance control (PDC) available on later models within the E32 generation.
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated mobile phone system.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control.
Seating:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated seats optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, check manual for exact spec.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on plug type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as recommended.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-98 (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40) - consult manual for exact viscosity based on climate.
Power Steering Fluid:
CHF 11S or ATF Dexron II (consult manual for specific type)
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel injector issues, ABS sensor failures, window regulator failures, instrument cluster pixelation, vacuum leaks.
Recommended Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection of cooling hoses, replacement of fuel filter, cleaning of mass airflow sensor, checking of all electrical connections.
Period Accolades:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its refined ride, powerful engine, and luxurious appointments. Frequently appeared on 'Car of the Year' or 'Best Luxury Car' lists of its era.
Reliability Reputation:
Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance, but some complex electronic systems can be prone to age-related failure. M30 engine is a robust design.
Iso Certification Compliance:
BMW facilities operate under stringent ISO quality management standards.
