Positioning:
Premium executive sedan, known for its performance, build quality, and sophisticated engineering.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ.
Driver Focus:
Driver-oriented cockpit, excellent handling, potent inline-six engine, comfortable ride.
Engineering Philosophy:
Emphasis on 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, incorporating advanced engineering for its era.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, fuel system (CIS-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission controls
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 265) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmission overhaul, repair, and adjustment, including clutch and driveshafts
Chassis:
Suspension (front struts, rear independent suspension, bushings), steering system, braking system (ABS, disc brakes front/rear), wheel alignment
Electrical:
Complete electrical system schematics, wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, diagnostics of electronic control units (ECU), starter, alternator, battery
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seals, glass, body repair procedures, rust prevention and repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement
Repair:
Engine component replacement, transmission rebuild, suspension arm and bushing replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic procedures for fuel injection and ignition systems, electrical fault finding
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and overhaul, including torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic data
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder SOHC
Displacement:
3.430 cc (3.4 Liters)
Horsepower Hp:
208 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.)
Torque Lb Ft:
214 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection with L-Jetronic Airflow Meter
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ RON / 87+ AKI)
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Crash Test Results:
NHTSA: Not extensively tested by modern standards, but E28 chassis known for robust construction and good crash energy management for its time.
ABS:
Available (standard on later models and optional on earlier ones)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on E28 models.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag introduced in later model years.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts.
Audio System:
Factory cassette stereo with optional CD changer. Analog controls.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control).
Cruise Control:
Standard on most 535i models.
Trip Computer:
Optional on some models, providing basic fuel consumption and distance to empty data.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard spark plugs, or per manual recommendations for specific types.
Timing Belt Or Chain:
M30 engines use a timing chain, requiring no periodic replacement, but needs inspection for wear.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature range), API SG or higher.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent, check manual for specific ATF type)
Engine:
Head gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, cooling system component failures (hoses, water pump, thermostat), fuel injector leaks, worn valve stem seals.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers, rear subframe mounting bushings.
Electrical:
Corroded connectors, failing ignition coil packs, intermittent sensor failures, aged wiring harnesses.
Body:
Rust, particularly around wheel arches, rocker panels, and rear strut towers. Window seals and sunroof seals can degrade.
