Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)
Philosophy:
BMW's flagship coupe of its era, emphasizing performance, comfort, and advanced technology
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz SEC, Porsche 928, Jaguar XJ-S, Ferrari 412
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic coupe styling, distinctive pop-up headlights, pillarless hardtop design
Performance Focus:
Powerful V8 and V12 engines, sophisticated chassis dynamics
Luxury:
Premium interior materials, advanced features for its time, refined ride quality
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust systems
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differential
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, electronic control units (ECUs)
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, climate control, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable to specific models covered)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical faults, error code interpretation (OBD-I)
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component repair
Installation:
Component replacement procedures, alignment specifications
Depth:
Detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts, complete overhaul procedures
Engine Codes:
M60B30, M60B40, M70B50
Engine Configurations:
3.0L V8, 4.0L V8, 5.0L V12
3.0L V8 (M60B30):
Approx. 215 hp @ 5800 rpm, 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) torque @ 4500 rpm
4.0L V8 (M60B40):
Approx. 282 hp @ 5800 rpm, 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) torque @ 4500 rpm
5.0L V12 (M70B50):
Approx. 295 hp @ 5200 rpm, 470 Nm (347 lb-ft) torque @ 3900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) for V8s, dual ignition for V12
Cylinder Block:
Aluminum-silicon alloy (M60/M70)
Transmission Options:
5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic (Steptronic optional later in production)
Automatic Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP24 (V8 models), ZF 4HP22 (V12 models)
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch (manual transmission)
Final Drive:
Limited-slip differential (LSD) available on some models
Crash Test Data:
No official comprehensive crash test ratings from NHTSA/IIHS for this specific period and model as commonly available today; Euro NCAP was not established then. However, BMW's engineering prioritized occupant safety for its class.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) available as an option on later models within this range
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard, passenger airbag optional/standard on later models within the specified range
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
High-fidelity audio systems were standard or optional, often from manufacturers like Nakamichi or Harman Kardon in later years. Cassette deck and AM/FM radio were typical.
Navigation:
BMW's early GPS navigation systems became available as options on later E31 models, but not standard on early 1989-1993 examples.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) was an option, offering enhanced stability during acceleration.
Telematics:
Limited by modern standards; often featured basic car phone preparation rather than integrated connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil specification. Check Condition Based Service (CBS) system if applicable.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium). Refer to manual for specific mileage/time recommendations.
Timing Belt Chain:
M60/M70 engines utilize a maintenance-free timing chain system.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40) and BMW Longlife specification (e.g., LL-98, LL-01 variants compatible with older specs).
Coolant:
BMW Blue or G48 ethylene glycol-based coolant. Specific mix ratio (50/50) is crucial.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 4 Plus recommended. Flush and replace every 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., Esso LT 71141 or equivalent). Fluid and filter changes are critical for longevity.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil specification (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-4/GL-5).
Differential Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil specification (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-5, potentially with LS additive for LSD).
Coolant Leaks:
Common issues include radiator leaks, coolant expansion tank cracking, and hose degradation. Water pump seal failures.
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related electrical issues, especially with complex systems like ABS, traction control, and comfort electronics. Wiring harness degradation. Window regulators failure.
Engine M60 4.0L:
Nikasil cylinder liner wear issues reported in early M60 engines (particularly 4.0L) due to sulfur in fuel. Later M60 engines and M62 used Alusil, which is more robust.
Throttle Body:
Idle control valve issues, electronic throttle control problems (on later models, not typically on 1989-1993 E31).
Suspension:
Wear in bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers due to age and mileage.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, blending performance, luxury, and advanced engineering.
Predecessor:
BMW E24 6 Series
Successor:
BMW E63/E64 6 Series (though the 8 Series was positioned higher)
Production Period E31:
1989-1999
Production Volume:
Approx. 31,600 units globally, making it a relatively rare model.
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Design Awards:
While specific 'awards' are not widely documented for the E31 in consumer publications of its time, its design was highly acclaimed and influential, often featured in automotive design showcases.
Performance Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its powerful engines, refined handling, and luxurious interior, cementing its status as a top-tier grand tourer.
Engineering Excellence:
Represented BMW's engineering prowess, particularly with the V12 engine and advanced chassis dynamics for its era.
