Vehicle Segment:
Compact executive car, a foundational model in BMW's revered 3 Series lineage.
Key Competitors 1988:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and engaging driving experience, setting benchmarks for the segment.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality of the era, known for durability and driver-focused ergonomics.
Manual Utility:
Essential for owners and independent mechanics to maintain and repair this classic BMW, preserving its performance and value.
Engine Service:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, ignition system.
Drivetrain Service:
Clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), driveshaft, differential, axles.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering gear, power steering system.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum depending on specification), ABS (if equipped), hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinder.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, fuses, relays, sensors, electronic control units (ECUs).
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, bumpers, structural components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, belt inspection and replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation (if applicable for the era), symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component repair.
Refurbishment Restoration:
Guidance on restoring worn components, bodywork refurbishment, interior detailing, paintwork preparation.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic owner maintenance to full workshop-level repairs and diagnostics, including detailed exploded views and torque specifications.
Digital Format Considerations:
If digital, expect searchable PDF format with high-resolution diagrams. If print, robust binding for frequent use.
Diagram Clarity:
High-quality, clear line drawings and schematics are crucial for accurate repair.
Durability For Shop Use:
Ideally a wire-o or heavy-duty stitched binding to lay flat on a workbench and withstand shop conditions.
Paper Quality:
Durable, possibly coated paper to resist grease and oil stains common in a workshop environment.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, naturally aspirated gasoline
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 84.0 mm x 81.0 mm (for M10B18)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 9.5:1 to 10.0:1 (depending on specific variant)
Horsepower:
Around 100-105 PS (98-103 bhp) at approximately 5800 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 140-145 Nm (103-107 lb-ft) at around 3500-4000 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 95/98 recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor
Transmission Type:
4-speed manual gearbox (Getrag 245/5 or similar)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22 or similar)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated
Final Drive:
Rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential often optional.
Crash Test Data Era:
Limited formal crash safety ratings compared to modern standards; E30 chassis known for robust safety cell for its time.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models.
Traction Control:
Traction control (ASC) was not commonly available on the 316 model in 1988.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear.
Headrests:
Adjustable front and rear headrests.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for enhanced driver protection.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, often Blaupunkt or Becker units. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Dashboard Design:
Driver-centric dashboard layout with clear analog gauges and ergonomically placed controls.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control available on higher trims or as an aftermarket addition.
Park Assist:
No electronic parking assistance systems available.
Bluetooth Usb:
No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity; aftermarket solutions are required.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil quality.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-24,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (API SG or higher, check manual for specific BMW approval)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., BMW blue or green coolant), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)
Cooling System:
Plastic radiator tanks can become brittle, thermostat housing leaks, heater core issues.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded grounds, aging wiring harnesses, faulty relays (e.g., the "30-second relay"), and failing ECUs can cause intermittent issues.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, battery tray, rear trunk floor.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear trailing arm bushings are common and affect handling.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Fuel injectors can clog, fuel pump can weaken over time, regular use of injector cleaner is beneficial.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' was firmly established with the E30 generation.
E30 Generation:
The second generation of the 3 Series, replacing the E21. The 316 was an entry-level variant offering accessible BMW quality.
Production Years:
E30 Series produced from 1982 to 1991. The 1988 model falls within this core period.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Germany, with potential assembly in other global locations.