Positioning:
A premium, luxury sedan offering advanced technology and comfort for its era.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ (XJ40).
Luxury Appointments:
High-quality interior materials, advanced comfort features, smooth ride quality.
Engineering:
BMW's renowned driving dynamics, sophisticated engine technology, and robust build quality.
Engine Service Repair:
Detailed diagnostic, repair, and maintenance information for all engines
Transmission Service Repair:
Comprehensive coverage for transmission systems
Brake System:
In-depth information on brake system maintenance and repair
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical system wiring diagrams included
Electrical System:
Complete diagnostic and repair procedures for electrical components
Suspension:
Service and repair procedures for the suspension system
Steering:
Detailed information on steering system maintenance and repair
Cooling System:
Comprehensive coverage of the cooling system
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Diagnostic and repair procedures for fuel injection and fuel delivery systems
Emission System:
Information related to emission control systems
Heater Air Conditional:
Service and repair for HVAC systems
Engine Control System:
Diagnostic information for the engine management computer
Chassis Body:
Coverage of chassis and body components
Restraint System:
Information on safety restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts)
Interior:
Details pertaining to the vehicle's interior
Differential Drive:
Service and repair for driveline components including differentials
Axle:
Information on axle assemblies
General Maintenance:
Procedures for routine and periodic maintenance
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving issues
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for all repair tasks
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed procedures for dismantling and reassembling components
Cleaning Reinstalling:
Instructions for cleaning and correctly reinstalling parts
Depth:
Professional-level, complete diagnostic, repair, and maintenance information as used by local service/repair shops
Illustrations Diagrams:
Hundreds of pages of diagrams, detailed information, pictures, drawings, and photos
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on necessary tools for repairs
Critical Information:
Notes, cautions, and warnings pinpointing critical information throughout each chapter
Instruction Format:
Numbered instructions for step-by-step repair procedures
Illustration Matching:
Bold figure numbers for quick matching of illustrations with instructions
Part Identification:
Enlarged insets for detailed examination of parts
Table Of Contents:
Numbered table of contents for easy and fast information retrieval
Engine Options:
Likely includes 3.0L and 3.5L inline-six engines (e.g., M30B30, M30B35) and potentially a V12 engine (M70B50).
Horsepower Torque:
Specific figures vary by engine, but expect approximately 180-210 hp for inline-six and 290-300 hp for V12.
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 116.7 inches (2964 mm)
Length:
Approx. 198.4 inches (5037 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.3 inches (1405 mm)
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and equipment, typically between 3700-4200 lbs (1678-1905 kg)
Audio System:
Premium sound systems, often with cassette player and AM/FM radio. Optional CD changer.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone capability on many models.
Connectivity Features:
Basic connectivity, primarily through the audio system. Onboard computer for trip data.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Major Service Interval:
Significant inspections and component replacements (e.g., spark plugs, coolant) often recommended around 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Multi-grade oil, typically SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50, or as specified by BMW (e.g., Castrol GTX).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW Blue or Green coolant.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent for automatic transmissions.
Common Wear Items:
Cooling system components (radiator, hoses, water pump), ignition components (spark plugs, distributor cap/rotor), fuel pump, and suspension bushings can be wear items.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older vehicles can develop minor electrical issues due to aging wiring and components, particularly in the door modules and climate control.
Engine M30 Durability:
The M30 engine is generally robust but requires regular maintenance, especially timely oil changes, to ensure longevity.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing driver-focused luxury sedans with a reputation for performance and engineering.
E32 Introduction:
The E32 replaced the E23 7 Series and introduced a sleeker, more aerodynamic design and advanced technology. It was produced from 1986 to 1994.
E32 Facelift:
A minor facelift occurred in 1991 with styling updates and new engine options (e.g., V8 engines).
Production Years:
1986-1994