Market Segment:
Performance Sedan/Coupe, Homologation Special
Key Competitors:
Porsche 944, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth, Ford Sierra RS Cosworth
Motorsport Heritage:
Developed for Group A touring car racing homologation
Original Equipment Manufacturer:
Based on official BMW workshop documentation
Professional Standard:
Designed for use by professional BMW technicians
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, assembly, and inspection of the S14 engine (2.3L)
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic engine control, fuel injection, ignition timing, sensors, actuators
Transmission Manual:
Getrag 265 5-speed gearbox service, clutch, driveshaft, differential
Suspension:
Front struts, rear multi-link suspension, springs, dampers, bushings, alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic lines, master cylinder
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, linkages, steering column
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, alternator, starter, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, ECUs
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, collision repair basics, trim, glass
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, components, troubleshooting
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, fluid checks and changes
Engine Rebuild:
Cylinder head removal/installation, piston/ring replacement, bearing service, crankshaft service
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete gearbox disassembly, inspection, and reassembly
Suspension Repair:
Strut replacement, bushing renewal, shock absorber installation
Brake System Service:
Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts for common problems and symptoms
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and drivetrain rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics for engine management and electrical systems
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed step-by-step rebuild procedures for major components
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Engine Displacement:
2302 cc (2.3 Liters)
Horsepower Output:
192 hp @ 6,000 rpm (catalytic converter-equipped, 200 hp without)
Torque Output:
230 Nm (169 lb-ft) @ 4,750 rpm
Fuel Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic (ML-System)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (98 RON / 93 AKI)
Bore X Stroke:
93.75 mm x 83.40 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Transmission Type:
Getrag 265 5-speed Manual
Optional Transmission:
None offered for M3
Gear Ratios:
Close-ratio gear set, including dogleg 1st gear
Final Drive:
Limited-slip differential (LSD)
Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommended Hypoid gear oil, SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 (e.g., BMW part no. 81 22 9 407 305)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Vintage vehicle, not subject to modern standardized testing)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Braking System:
Large diameter vented front discs, solid rear discs
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and crumple zones, designed for enhanced safety
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 Liters (5.8 US Quarts)
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 or equivalent, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Engine Issues:
Valve stem seals, oil leaks (oil pan, valve cover), timing chain tensioner wear, VANOS unit (if equipped on later models)
Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, strut mounts
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses, faulty fuel pump relays, MAF sensor issues
Bmw Motorsport Division:
Established 1972, responsible for BMW's racing and performance vehicles
E30 Platform:
Second generation BMW 3 Series, produced 1982-1994
M3 Origins:
Homologation special for Group A touring car racing, launched in 1986
Production Period E30 M3:
1986-1991 (This manual covers the initial development and early models)
Manufacturing Location:
Munich, Germany
Automotive Journals:
Widely praised by contemporary automotive publications for its driving dynamics and motorsport pedigree.
Performance Classification:
Iconic sports car, homologation special, driver's car
Homologation Status:
Built to meet Group A racing regulations
