Market Segment:
Iconic homologation special, performance sedan/coupe.
Competitors:
Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16, Alfa Romeo 75 Evoluzione.
Performance Focus:
Developed for Group A touring car racing homologation, featuring significant chassis and engine upgrades over standard E30 models.
Handling:
Renowned for its exceptional handling and driver engagement, thanks to a bespoke multi-link rear suspension and wider track.
Design:
Distinctive box-flared fenders, unique front and rear spoilers, and a more aerodynamic body kit compared to standard E30 models.
Powertrain:
Engine (S14), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Getrag 265 5-speed Manual), Drivetrain (Rear-Wheel Drive, Limited-Slip Differential)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Trailing Arm), Steering System (Recirculating Ball), Brakes (Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Discs), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Management System (DME), Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses and Relays
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Heating and Ventilation (HVAC), Convertible Top (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Belt Adjustments
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Finding Charts, Symptom-Based Diagnostics
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and component-level repair.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
Displacement:
2302 cc (2.3 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
91.0 mm x 87.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 Valves per Cylinder
Horsepower:
218 hp (163 kW) at 6750 rpm (DIN spec, some markets may vary slightly)
Torque:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) at 4750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M3.1 Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (98 RON / 91 AKI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or similar advanced system for its time.
Type:
Getrag 265 5-speed Manual
Gear Ratios:
Close-ratio, including Dogleg 1st gear pattern.
Type:
None (M3 was exclusively manual transmission)
Differential:
BMW M Limited-Slip Differential (30% lock)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific synthetic gear oil (e.g., Pentosin Gear Oil SAE 75W-90 or equivalent).
Length:
Approx. 4345 mm (171.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in) - wider than standard E30
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2565 mm (101.0 in)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 1440 mm (56.7 in)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in) - wider than standard E30
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1200 kg (2646 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
N/A (Generally not a primary spec for performance manuals)
Weight Distribution:
Near 50/50 front/rear with driver, a key M3 characteristic.
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data from modern standards, but E30 chassis known for good passive safety for its era.
Braking System:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard on M3 models.
Stability Control:
No electronic stability control systems.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag typically standard for 1990 models.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts, potentially with pre-tensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and crumple zones.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, potentially with optional premium sound system (e.g., Bavaria C).
Dashboard Display:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Check control panel for warning lights.
Cruise Control:
Optional feature, typically controlled via a stalk on the steering column.
Exterior Features:
Electric mirrors, fog lights (front and rear).
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC system with adjustable fan speed and temperature.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise intervals.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect annually, replace as needed or every 20,000-30,000 miles (30,000-50,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000-40,000 miles (50,000-60,000 km). Specific type and gap detailed in manual.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW recommends synthetic 5W-40 or 10W-40 oil meeting BMW LL-01 specifications (or equivalent older specs like A4 or E4).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. BMW blue coolant (G48) or equivalent is recommended. Always use a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Oil Consumption:
S14 engines are known for higher oil consumption than some other BMW engines. Regular oil level checks are crucial.
Rear Suspension Mounts:
Cracking or failure of rear trailing arm mounting points in the chassis can occur due to age and stress. Inspection and reinforcement are advised.
Fuel Lines:
Degradation of rubber fuel lines over time can lead to leaks.
Accumulator:
The brake system may have a brake pressure accumulator which can fail over time, affecting brake pedal feel.
Bmw Motorsport:
BMW M GmbH's first standalone model, built to homologate the E30 for Group A touring car racing.
Development:
Developed by BMW Motorsport, featuring significant chassis and engine modifications from the standard E30 3-Series.
Racing Success:
Highly successful in motorsport, winning numerous championships worldwide, including the DTM, ETCC, and IMSA GTP.
Production Years:
1986-1991 (E30 M3)
Production Volume:
Approx. 17,970 units worldwide for all E30 M3 variants.