🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

8 Series

Model Code:

E31

Year:

1997

Generation Designation:

First Generation (E31)

Chassis Code:

E31

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Porsche 928, Jaguar XJS, Ferrari 456 GT

Design Philosophy:

Long-distance comfort, powerful performance, distinctive styling, advanced engineering

Styling:

Chris Bangle designed, iconic pop-up headlights, pillarless hardtop coupe

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Maintenance and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Component Replacement

Estimated Page Count:

N/A (PDF document)

Type:

Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Included (Driveability)

Engine:

Comprehensive coverage

Ignition System:

Included

Fuel System:

Included

Cooling System:

Included

Exhaust System Emissions:

Included (Emission Controls)

Manual Transmission:

Included (Clutch)

Automatic Transmission:

Included (Clutch)

Drivetrain:

Included (Driveshaft and Final Drive)

Brakes:

Included

Suspension Steering:

Included

Body Interior:

Included

Electrical System:

Included

Maintenance Schedule:

Provided

Repair Procedures:

Comprehensive detailed steps

Troubleshooting:

Implicitly covered through diagnostic procedures

Depth:

Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Printability:

Yes

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Operating Systems:

Windows and MAC

Software Requirement:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variant:

Likely M60B40 (4.0L V8) or M62B44 (4.4L V8) for 1997 model year

Engine Type:

V8, naturally aspirated

Horsepower:

Approximately 282 hp (4.0L) to 286 hp (4.4L)

Torque:

Approximately 295 lb-ft (4.0L) to 310 lb-ft (4.4L)

Injection Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (S5D 320Z) or 5-speed automatic (Steptronic optional)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Steptronic automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch (manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 191.1 inches

Width:

Approximately 71.5 inches

Height:

Approximately 51.8 inches

Wheelbase:

Approximately 106.5 inches

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,900 - 4,100 lbs (depending on engine and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not specifically rated in modern terms due to era of manufacture

ABS:

Standard

Traction Control:

Standard (ASC+T)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional Hi-Fi or premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon) with cassette player and CD changer (optional)

Navigation:

Optional BMW Professional Navigation system

Cruise Control:

Standard

Phone Integration:

Optional factory-installed car phone system

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

As per manual recommendations, typically 7,500-10,000 miles or annually

Transmission Fluid Interval:

As per manual recommendations, often sealed for life or extended intervals

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW High Performance Synthetic (e.g., Castrol TWS / Edge), SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate (refer to manual for exact BMW LL-01 or earlier spec)

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (typically CHF 11S or similar)

Common Problems:

ABS/ASC module failure, VANOS seal wear, fuel pump issues, coolant leaks (heater core, expansion tank), window regulator failures, door seal degradation, electronic control unit (ECU) issues, starter motor fatigue.

Oil Filter Part Example:

e.g., Mann-Filter HU 821 x, Mahle KL 145/2

Air Filter Part Example:

e.g., Mann-Filter C 35 145, Mahle LX 717

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, Germany

Production Years:

1989-1999

Manufacturing Plant:

Dingolfing, Germany

Sales Figures:

Approximately 30,000 units worldwide, making it a relatively rare model

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Award:

Often cited for its distinctive and timeless design, although not a specific named award for the 1997 model year.