Body Styles Covered:
Touring (Wagon), Convertible
Model Years Covered:
1983-1991
Engine Codes Common:
M10 (4-cyl), M20 (6-cyl), M40 (4-cyl), M42 (4-cyl DOHC)
Transmission Codes Common:
Getrag 240, Getrag 260
Segment:
Compact executive car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking to maintain or restore their E30
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra
Performance Orientation:
Known for its sporty handling, rear-wheel-drive platform, and driver-focused experience
Durability:
Renowned for build quality and longevity when properly maintained
Versatility:
The Touring and Convertible variants offered increased practicality and open-air enjoyment respectively
Engine:
Complete diagnosis, overhaul, timing, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic), cooling, lubrication
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch service, driveshafts, differential
Brakes:
Hydraulic system diagnosis and repair, ABS (if equipped), brake pad/rotor replacement, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column, tie rods
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, ignition system, instrument cluster, ECUs
Bodywork:
Body panel removal/installation, convertible top mechanisms, interior trim, doors, windows
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant service, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, coolant flushes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, common problem diagnosis
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems
Rebuild:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures with torque specifications
Installation:
Installation procedures for common replacement parts (e.g., suspension components, exhaust)
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls and advanced diagnostics
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on necessary tools and equipment, including specific diagnostic testers (where applicable to the era)
Base Engine E30 Touring:
M10B18 (1.8L Inline-4, 8V, SOHC), later M40B18 (1.8L Inline-4, 8V, SOHC)
Popular Engine E30 Touring:
M20B25 (2.5L Inline-6, 12V, SOHC)
Popular Engine E30 Convertible:
M20B20 (2.0L Inline-6, 12V, SOHC), M20B25 (2.5L Inline-6, 12V, SOHC), M30B35 (3.5L Inline-6, 12V, SOHC for specific models like 335i)
Later Performance Engine:
M42B18 (1.8L Inline-4, 16V, DOHC)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 105 hp (1.8L) to 170 hp (2.5L), up to 210 hp for M3 variants (though M3 is not typically E30 Touring/Convertible)
Torque Range:
Approx. 105 lb-ft (1.8L) to 140 lb-ft (2.5L)
Injection Systems:
Bosch L-Jetronic, Bosch Motronic (various generations depending on engine and year)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Standard Transmission:
4-speed manual (early), 5-speed manual (later, common)
Optional Transmission:
3-speed automatic (early), 4-speed automatic (later)
Rear Wheel Drive:
All E30 models are RWD
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios for different transmissions and engine variants detailed in manual
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (Touring & Convertible)
Length:
Varies by body style, approx. 4340 mm (Touring), 4340 mm (Convertible)
Height:
Varies by body style, approx. 1370 mm (Convertible), 1415 mm (Touring)
Cargo Capacity Touring:
Approx. 370-1120 liters with rear seats folded
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1200-1350 kg depending on engine and body style
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
Historical Safety Standards:
Designed to early 1980s/1990s safety standards; Euro NCAP/NHTSA ratings may not be directly comparable to modern vehicles
ABS:
Optional on many models, standard on some later variants and performance models
Airbags:
Driver airbag optional on later models, passenger airbag generally not available until very late production or E36 generation.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, rear seatbelts
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and windscreen frame for convertible models
Radio Options:
Factory radios (e.g., BMW Bavaria C, Business Cassette) were common. Aftermarket upgrades are prevalent.
Speaker Systems:
Basic speaker setups, often requiring upgrades for modern audio quality.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models.
Onboard Computer:
Optional on some higher-trim models, displaying basic trip information.
Early Phone Integration:
Pre-dates modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Some vehicles might have provision for early car phones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Manual will specify for each engine.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For M20 and M40 engines: typically every 30,000-40,000 miles or 2-3 years. M42 and M44 engines use a timing chain.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-40,000 miles.
Engine Oil Recommendation:
API SG or higher, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 20W-50 (e.g., Castrol GTX, Valvoline VR1). Manual specifies exact types.
Coolant Type:
BMW blue ethylene glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. BMW P/N 82 14 1 467 703.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 rated gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity around 1.5-1.8 liters.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron II or III. Capacity around 3.5-4.5 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 recommended.
Coolingsystem Leaks:
Common for plastic expansion tanks and hoses to degrade over time.
Rear Wheel Bearing Wear:
Can be prone to wear, especially if driven aggressively.
Fuel Injector Clogging:
Older fuel systems can be susceptible to clogged injectors affecting performance.
Subframe Mount Cracking:
Reinforcement kits are often available to prevent or repair cracked rear subframe mounts.
Rust:
Vulnerable areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, and around the windscreen.
Convertible Top Mechanisms:
Hydraulic lines and seals can degrade, leading to leaks or inoperable tops.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing sportiness and engineering precision
E30 Generation:
Second generation of the 3 Series, succeeded the E21 and preceded the E36. Introduced rear independent suspension refinements over E21.
Touring Introduction:
The E30 Touring (often referred to as the E30/5) was a significant addition, offering BMW's characteristic driving dynamics in a practical wagon form.
Convertible Introduction:
The E30 Convertible (often referred to as E30/2C) was a very popular and stylish variant, replacing the E21 Convertible.
Production Years:
1982-1994 (overall E30 generation), with Touring and Convertible variants concentrated within the 1983-1991 timeframe specified
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with potential assembly in other BMW facilities globally.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E30 3 Series, in various sedan and coupe forms, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run.
Driving Dynamics Acclaim:
Widely praised by automotive journalists for its handling, balance, and driver engagement, solidifying BMW's sports sedan reputation.
