🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

328i

Chassis Code:

E30

Model Years Covered:

1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991

Engine Code Primary:

M20B27 (E - Economy version, but often referred to colloquially with the 325 models)

Engine Code Alternative:

M20B25 (for the 325i, often associated with the E30 platform but the 328i designation is less common for North American E30s. Clarification: The 328i nomenclature was more prevalent in European markets or as a specific tuning variant, often referring to the M20B27 engine in a higher state of tune or the M30 sourced engines in later models. For E30 context, it's most likely referring to the 325i's M20B25 engine for US market, or a European market variant. Assuming US market M20B27 for general 328i interpretation).

👋 Introduction

Era:

Late 1980s to early 1990s sports sedan and coupe.

Target Audience:

Enthusiast owners, DIY mechanics, and independent repair shops specializing in classic BMWs.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W201 (190E), Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Ford Sierra, Volvo 240 series.

Vehicle Focus:

Rear-wheel drive chassis, excellent handling dynamics, driver-focused cockpit, robust engineering.

Manual Value:

Provides in-depth technical knowledge crucial for maintaining and restoring these increasingly sought-after classic vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Mechanical:

Yes

Engine Management And Emissions:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Transmission Manual:

Yes

Transmission Automatic:

Yes

Drivetrain And Axles:

Yes

Suspension And Steering:

Yes

Brakes And Wheel Hubs:

Yes

Body And Chassis:

Yes

Electrical System And Diagnostics:

Yes

HVAC System:

Yes

Interior And Exterior Trim:

Yes

Troubleshooting Guides:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (specific count not provided, but typical for comprehensive manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

M20 inline-six engine: cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, valvetrain, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition, emissions control systems.

Transmission Systems:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission, ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission: removal, installation, internal repair, clutch assembly, driveshaft, differential.

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, fuses and relays, diagnostic connectors (OBD I).

Braking Systems:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for applicable models, brake fluid, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads, lines.

Suspension And Steering:

Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arm suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, power steering system, steering rack.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections and replacement, tune-ups, pre-delivery inspections.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake component replacement, suspension upgrades, electrical diagnostics and repair, body panel repair, interior component replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and performance degradation.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic information and repair specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text, providing efficient access to information.

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (M20)

Displacement Cc:

2693 cc (M20B27 - 'Eta' engine, common in US 325e/328i variants in name)

Displacement Cu In:

164.3 cu in (M20B27)

Bore X Stroke Mm:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm (M20B27)

Horsepower Hp M20B27 Eta:

Approx. 121-124 hp @ 4,800 rpm (US spec 'Eta' engine - torque-focused)

Torque Lb Ft M20B27 Eta:

Approx. 170-177 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm (US spec 'Eta' engine)

Horsepower Hp M20B25 Variant:

Approx. 168-170 hp @ 5,800 rpm (if referring to a potent 325i variant or European '328i' with M20B25 tuned)

Torque Lb Ft M20B25 Variant:

Approx. 164-167 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (if referring to a potent 325i variant or European '328i' with M20B25 tuned)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended)

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition system (DIS) on later models, or distributor-based on earlier variants.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation

Gear Ratios Manual Example:

Typically around 3.72:1 (1st), 2.02:1 (2nd), 1.30:1 (3rd), 1.00:1 (4th), 0.81:1 (5th) - subject to specific model variant.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MTF LT-2 (Manual) or Dexron III (Automatic) - consult specific manual for exact BMW P/N.

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

Approx. 4340 mm (Sedan)

Width Mm:

Approx. 1670 mm

Height Mm:

Approx. 1380 mm

Wheelbase Mm:

Approx. 2570 mm

Curb Weight Kg:

Approx. 1200-1300 kg (depending on body style and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era:

Era-appropriate safety standards; advanced for its time, but not comparable to modern vehicles.

ABS:

Available on many models, particularly later production runs.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.

Chassis Design:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Original BMW cassette or radio units. Aftermarket head units were common upgrades.

Speakers:

Typically 4-6 speakers depending on trim.

Cruise Control:

Optional on most models.

Bluetooth:

Not available from factory; aftermarket integration required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Km:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months (subject to driving conditions and oil type).

Spark Plug Replacement Km:

Approx. 40,000-60,000 km, depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Timing Belt Replacement Km:

M20 engines use a timing chain, not a belt, which typically lasts the life of the engine but requires tensioner checks.

Brake Fluid Change Years:

Every 2 years.

Engine Oil Type Viscosity:

BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent. Common viscosity: 15W-50, 20W-50, or 10W-40 depending on climate. Consult manual for exact BMW PN and spec.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. BMW Blue or Green type. Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

CHF 11S or Pentosin hydraulic fluid. (Check manual for exact BMW PN).

Engine Common Problems:

Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (hose failures, radiator, water pump), starter motor failure, fuel pump issues, idle control valve problems.

Suspension Common Problems:

Worn control arm bushings, worn shock absorbers, rear trailing arm bushing failure (critical), subframe mount degradation.

Electrical Common Problems:

Fuse box issues, alternator failures, intermittent electrical gremlins, wiring harness degradation, fuel injector connector issues.

Body Common Problems:

Rust (wheel arches, rocker panels, battery tray, strut towers), headliner sagging, door panel water ingress.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, focused on performance, handling, and driver engagement.

E30 Introduction:

Launched in 1982, the E30 succeeded the E21 and became one of BMW's most iconic and successful models.

E30 Variations:

Available as 2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, convertible, and touring (wagon). Performance variants include the M3, 325i, and special editions.

Production Years:

1982-1994 (globally for E30 platform)

Production Locations:

Mainly Germany, but also plants in South Africa, Thailand, and Mexico.

E30 Legacy:

Highly regarded for its timeless design, driving dynamics, and build quality, making it a modern classic.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E30 325i was frequently named to Car and Driver's 10 Best lists during its production years, lauded for its driving dynamics.

Contemporaneous Reviews:

Universally praised by automotive press for its handling, performance, and build quality.

Modern Classic Status:

Widely considered a modern classic by automotive enthusiasts and collectors.