Market Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its excellent handling, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and driver-focused cockpit.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality and durability.
Design Heritage:
Iconic E30 design language, a cornerstone of BMW's sporty image.
Model Years Covered:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Estimated Page Count:
~1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul and repair procedures for the M20 inline-six engine.
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnostics and repair of the Bosch Motronic fuel injection and ignition system.
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul for Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission.
Transmission Automatic:
Repair and overhaul for ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission.
Suspension And Steering:
Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, power steering system repair.
Brake System:
Front vented discs, rear solid discs, ABS system diagnostics and repair (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse and relay identification.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, sunroof operation, alignment procedures.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs.
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed steps for engine disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and break-in.
Transmission Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for manual and automatic transmission rebuilding.
Brake Replacement:
Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake bleeding procedures.
Suspension Repair:
Strut replacement, bushing installation, alignment procedures.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics, common problem solutions.
Electrical Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting shorts, open circuits, and component failures using wiring diagrams.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed procedures for diagnosing electronic and mechanical systems.
Engine Code:
M20B27 (early 'eta' variants), M20B25
Engine Type:
SOHC Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
2.7 Liters ('eta'), 2.5 Liters
Horsepower 325I:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm (US Spec M20B25)
Torque 325I:
164 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm (US Spec M20B25)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Rear Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) often optional or standard on 'is' models
Crash Test Performance:
Generally considered robust for its era, but lacks modern airbag and crumple zone technology.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on some models.
Traction Control:
Traction control (ASC) became available later in the E30 lifecycle, less common on these specific models.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became available later in the E30's production, not standard on early models.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, rear lap belts.
Head Unit:
Original BBMW Bavaria C or similar cassette-based radios, often upgraded by owners.
Speakers:
Factory speaker locations, often 4-6 speakers.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily radio and optional power features.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 3-5 years (critical maintenance item for M20 engine).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40, API SG or higher.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent for manual transmission synchronizers.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ZF TE-ML 11A or equivalent (e.g., Dexron II/III).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems Engine:
Cracked cylinder head (especially early M20s), fuel pump failure, vacuum leaks, oil pan gasket leaks.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, rear trailing arm bushings, shock absorber failure.
Common Problems Electrical:
Corroded wiring harnesses, faulty fuel pump relays, instrument cluster issues.
Common Problems Body:
Rust (especially around wheel arches, rocker panels, and battery tray), sunroof drain blockage.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' is evident in the E30's chassis and powertrain.
E30 Introduction:
The E30 chassis replaced the E21 3 Series and was produced from 1982 to 1994 globally, with the 325i/is models arriving later.
325I Vs 325Is:
The 'is' designation typically signified sportier styling and suspension options, including M-Technic body kits and sport seats.
Production Period:
1982-1994 (E30 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, Mexico, USA (assembly)
Automotive Press Acclaim:
The E30 3 Series, including the 325i/is, consistently received praise for its driving dynamics and engineering.
Driving Enthusiast Ratings:
Considered a modern classic and highly regarded by driving enthusiasts for decades.
