🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series (E30)

Sub Model:

325, 325e, 325es

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sports Sedan/Coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs on their BMW E30 models.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra.

Design Philosophy:

Driver-focused, balanced chassis, iconic styling, quality German engineering.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth, official factory repair information, empowering owners and mechanics to maintain and repair these classic vehicles effectively and economically.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years:

1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994

Estimated Pages:

Varies by specific edition, typically 1500-2500 pages for complete workshop manuals covering multiple years and variants.

Type:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (typically PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M20 6-cylinder engines (2.5L, 2.7L), including M20B27 (325e/es) and M20B25 (325i/is, though 325i/is were not explicitly mentioned in the product name, they share significant platform architecture with the covered models and are often included in comprehensive E30 manuals).

Fuel System:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection systems (various iterations), fuel pumps, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank.

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition control, coil, spark plugs, distributor (early models).

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant types.

Exhaust System:

Manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes, emissions control.

Transmission Manual:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission, clutch system, shift linkage, gearbox servicing.

Transmission Automatic:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission, torque converter, valve body, gearbox servicing.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, rear differential (various ratios), half-shafts, limited-slip differential (optional).

Suspension:

Front strut assembly, rear semi-trailing arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, sway bars.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, U-joints.

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, rear discs, calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for applicable models, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior lights).

Instrument Panel:

Gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, oil temp), warning lights, OBC (On-Board Computer) functionality.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, windows, seals, structural components, rust prevention.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (AC) system components, operation, and servicing.

Interior:

Seats, upholstery, door panels, dashboard, trim components.

Maintenance:

Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, cooling system problems, etc.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all covered systems.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting trees, fault code interpretation (where applicable), electrical testing procedures.

Rebuilds:

Engine, transmission, and differential overhaul procedures.

Adjustments:

Valve adjustments (where applicable), throttle body synchronization, idle speed adjustments.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine timing, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure tests.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and body repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Typically searchable text for easy navigation and information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution, designed for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.

Binding:

Not applicable for digital download; if printed, would be spiral-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop.

Paper:

Not applicable for digital download; professional printed manuals typically use durable, matte-finish paper to reduce glare and withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M20B27

Displacement:

2.7 Liters (2693 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 81 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 (US Spec)

Horsepower Net:

121 hp @ 4800 rpm (US Spec)

Torque Net:

170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (US Spec)

Engine Code:

M20B27 (often referred to as 'stroker' or 'super eta' due to modifications)

Displacement:

2.7 Liters (2693 cc)

Horsepower Net:

125-127 hp @ 4800 rpm (US Spec)

Torque Net:

170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (US Spec)

Engine Code:

M20B25 (typically found in the 325i/is but often used synonymously or as a closely related variant in manuals for the 325e/es range, particularly for later model year updates or performance variants)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1 (US Spec)

Horsepower Net:

168-171 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (US Spec)

Torque Net:

164-167 lb-ft @ 4300-4500 rpm (US Spec)

0 60 Mph 325E:

Approx. 9.0-10.0 seconds

0 60 Mph 325Es:

Approx. 8.5-9.5 seconds

Top Speed 325E:

Approx. 120-125 mph

Top Speed 325Es:

Approx. 120-125 mph

Injection Type:

Bosch L-Jetronic (early 325e), Bosch Motronic ML/M1.3/M1.7 (later 325e/es and 325i/is).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium (91 Octane RON/AKI recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 16.4 US gallons (62 liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed Manual Transmission (standard on most 325es, optional on 325e)

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission (optional on 325e, standard on some 325i/is variants)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch

Manual Gear Ratios:

Varies by specific Getrag 260 variant, but typical ratios are around 3.72, 2.40, 1.58, 1.22, 1.00 (reverse 3.54).

Automatic Gear Ratios:

Varies by specific ZF 4HP22 variant, but typical ratios are around 2.48, 1.48, 1.00, 0.72 (reverse 2.08).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Typically Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF or a specified manual transmission fluid (e.g., BMW MTF LT-2, though specific E30 requirements may vary).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Typically Dexron II-E or Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF. Specific BMW fluid recommendations should be followed.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.2 inches (2570 mm)

Length:

170.5 inches (4330 mm) for Sedan/Coupe

Width:

66.0 inches (1676 mm)

Height:

54.7 inches (1390 mm) for Sedan/Coupe

Front Track:

55.1 inches (1400 mm)

Rear Track:

55.5 inches (1410 mm)

Front Headroom:

Approx. 38.7 inches (983 mm)

Front Legroom:

Approx. 41.9 inches (1064 mm)

Rear Headroom:

Approx. 37.1 inches (942 mm)

Rear Legroom:

Approx. 32.0 inches (813 mm)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 13.7 cubic feet (388 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2800-3000 lbs (1270-1360 kg), varies by model and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by model, typically around 3900-4100 lbs.

Towing Capacity:

Not officially rated or recommended by BMW for US models.

Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:

5x120mm

Wheel Size:

Standard 14-inch alloy wheels, optional 15-inch (e.g., bottle cap style or M-System).

Tire Size:

Standard 195/65R14, optional 205/55R14 or 205/50VR15.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:

Data for this era is limited and not directly comparable to modern standards. Early E30s lacked many of the passive safety features of later vehicles.

ABS:

Optional on many models, standard on later 325i/is and some 325e/es variants. Bosch ABS II system.

Traction Control:

Not available on these specific models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became optional in the late 1980s and standard in the early 1990s for some markets/trims. Passenger airbag not typically available.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, two-point rear seatbelts (later models may have three-point rear belts).

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and B-pillars, safety cage construction.

Crumple Zones:

Designed front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory BMW E30 radios (e.g., Bavaria C, RDS) with cassette players. Often replaced with aftermarket units.

Speakers:

Factory speaker locations in doors and rear parcel shelf.

Cruise Control:

Optional feature on many models.

On Board Computer Obc:

Optional multi-function computer (OBC) available on higher trims, providing fuel consumption, average speed, and diagnostic codes.

Bluetooth Usb:

Not factory equipped. Modern aftermarket head units are often installed for these features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium plugs if used.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The M20 engine uses a timing *chain*, not a belt, which is generally more durable but requires inspection for stretch and wear.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 depending on climate. BMW recommends specific viscosity grades, consult manual.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). BMW Blue Coolant or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron II or III, or specific BMW power steering fluid.

Engine Idle Roughness:

Often due to vacuum leaks, worn fuel injectors, or dirty throttle bodies.

Oil Leaks:

Common from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front/rear main seals.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear trailing arm bushings are frequent wear items.

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle, hoses can degrade over time, water pumps can fail.

Electrical Issues:

Corroded grounds, failing alternators, starter solenoids, and ECU issues can occur.

Interior Wear:

Sun-faded dashboards, cracked leather, sagging headliners, and worn seat bolsters are common.

Rust:

Common areas for rust include wheel wells, rocker panels, jacking points, battery tray, and around windows.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)

Heritage:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, well-engineered vehicles with a strong emphasis on performance and handling.

Generation:

Second generation of the BMW 3 Series.

Introduction Year:

1982

Design Evolution:

Introduced a more modern, aerodynamic design compared to the E21. Featured independent rear suspension (semi-trailing arms) and a revised MacPherson strut front suspension.

Facelift:

Minor facelift around 1985/1986 included revised bumpers (plastic 'diving boards' replaced chrome), updated interior trim, and engine refinements (M20B25 engine introduced more widely).

Key Variants:

323i, 324d, 324td, 325e, 325es, 325i, 325ix (AWD), M3 (E30).

Production Years:

1982-1994

Manufacturing Locations:

Mainly Dingolfing, Germany. Also produced under license in other locations at various times.

Sales Figures:

Over 2 million E30s produced globally across all body styles.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, handling, and build quality throughout its production run. Often cited as one of the benchmark sports sedans of its era.

Collectible Status:

Highly regarded as a modern classic and collectible car, particularly well-preserved examples and performance variants like the 325i/is and M3.

Historical Significance:

The E30 is considered a significant model in BMW's history, solidifying its reputation for sporting sedans and laying the groundwork for future generations of the 3 Series.