Positioning:
The BMW 518 (E28) was positioned as an entry-level luxury sedan in BMW's esteemed 5 Series lineup, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and the distinctive BMW driving experience at a more accessible price point.
Competitors:
Competed directly with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz W123 200, Audi 100, and Volvo 240 GL, appealing to buyers seeking a premium German-engineered sedan.
Distinctive Aspects:
Known for its robust engineering, refined ride quality, practical interior, and the characteristic rear-wheel-drive dynamics synonymous with BMW.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, and emissions systems.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch operation, driveline components.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system schematics, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, instrument cluster, and accessories.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS if equipped on later E28 variants, though unlikely for '82 518), wheel alignment.
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning).
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs, belt adjustments.
Repair:
Component removal, installation, rebuilding, and adjustment for all major systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding charts, common problems and their solutions.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid services to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Format Details:
Physical book, likely printed on durable paper stock for workshop use. Pages are typically well-organized with clear diagrams.
Quality:
Professional workshop quality, designed for frequent use in a garage environment. Includes detailed diagrams and illustrations.
Binding:
Likely a sturdy comb binding or sewn binding to allow the manual to lay flat when open on a workbench.
Paper:
Durable, possibly laminated or coated paper to resist grease and oil stains common in workshop environments.
Completeness:
This is a comprehensive workshop manual, meaning it covers all aspects of service and repair, not just basic maintenance or specific components. It is designed to be a complete guide for mechanics.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), naturally aspirated.
Engine Code:
M10B18 (common for the 1.8L variant)
Displacement:
1766 cc (1.8 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 80.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 or 8.5:1 (depending on market/variant)
Horsepower Peak:
Approx. 90 PS (89 bhp / 66 kW) at 5500 rpm
Torque Peak:
Approx. 135 Nm (99 lb-ft) at 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex 32/32 DIDTA) or Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection, depending on the specific market and model year.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium/Super Unleaded)
Ignition System:
Contact breaker points ignition (early models) or electronic ignition (later models) with distributor.
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1810 kg (3990 lbs)
Crash Testing Era:
Vehicles from this era were not subjected to the same rigorous standardized crash testing as modern vehicles (e.g., NHTSA's 5-star system). Safety was often based on internal testing and European standards of the time.
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Drums. Power assisted braking system.
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering, often with power assistance (optional or standard depending on market).
Seatbelts:
Front three-point inertia-reel seatbelts, rear lap belts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones front and rear.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights for improved nighttime visibility.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was common. Optional upgrade to a premium sound system with more speakers and power.
ABS:
ABS was not standard or widely available on the 1982 518. If present, it would be an early, less sophisticated system.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Primarily analog systems.
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SF or ACEA A2/B2, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on ambient temperature). Check manual for exact specification. Capacity: Approx. 4.0-4.5 Liters.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification is a modern equivalent, but likely an ethylene glycol based coolant for the era) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 7.0 Liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Capacity: Approx. 0.5 Liters.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.3-1.5 Liters.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II (or equivalent) ATF. Capacity: Approx. 1.3 Liters (fill and drain).
Differential Oil:
GL-5 SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.0-1.2 Liters.
Engine M10:
Timing chain stretch, oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, potential for head gasket failure if overheated.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, thermostat sticking, fan clutch failure (if applicable), water pump wear.
Electrical:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses, alternator/regulator issues, headlight switch failures, intermittent power to accessories.
Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and steering damper lead to vague steering and poor alignment. Rear trailing arm bushings are critical.
Rust Corrosion:
Common rust points include wheel arches, rocker panels, rear valence, and battery tray area. Thorough inspection is crucial.
Heritage Summary:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long-standing reputation for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on engineering excellence and driving dynamics.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12. It represented a significant evolution in design, technology, and aerodynamics for BMW's mid-size executive sedan.
E28 518 Role:
The 518 served as the base model within the E28 range, providing a more affordable entry point into the 5 Series segment, primarily for European markets.
Production Period:
E28 generation produced from 1981 to 1988. The 518 model was primarily produced in the earlier years of this generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany at BMW's Dingolfing plant.
Industry Perception:
The E28 5 Series platform, in general, was highly regarded for its build quality, driving dynamics, and durability, earning it a strong reputation in the luxury sedan market.
Performance Reviews:
Contemporary automotive press often praised the E28 for its balanced handling, responsive engines (relative to its class), and comfortable yet firm ride, solidifying BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' tagline.
