Positioning:
The definitive guide for owners and mechanics of the iconic E30 M3.
Advantage:
Provides factory-level detail often missing in aftermarket guides.
Target Audience:
BMW Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Professional Technicians
Value Proposition:
Enables accurate diagnosis, efficient repair, and proper maintenance for longevity and performance.
Engine:
S14 Engine (2.3L DOHC 4-cylinder)
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection and Ignition
Transmission:
Getrag 265 5-Speed Manual
Drivetrain:
Rear Wheel Drive, Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
Suspension:
Front McPherson Struts, Rear Independent Trailing Arms
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, ABS (Optional)
Steering:
Recirculating Ball, Power Steering
Electrical:
12V System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Accessories
Body:
Chassis, Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Aerodynamics
Maintenance:
Routine Service, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups
Engine Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Head Gasket Replacement, Piston/Rod Rebuild
Transmission Repair:
Clutch Replacement, Gearbox Overhaul, Driveshaft Service
Brake Service:
Brake Pad/Disc Replacement, Caliper Rebuild, Fluid Bleeding
Suspension Repair:
Shock/Strut Replacement, Bushing Replacement, Alignment Procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Troubleshooting Faults
Body Repair:
Panel Replacement, Dent Removal, Sealing Procedures
Fuel System Repair:
Fuel Injector Servicing, Fuel Pump Replacement, Fuel Filter Replacement
Cooling System Service:
Radiator Replacement, Water Pump Service, Coolant Flush
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, tolerances, and critical measurements.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder (S14)
Displacement:
2302 cc (2.3 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
91.0 mm x 87.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 Valves per Cylinder
Horsepower:
192 hp @ 6,900 rpm (Euro Spec)
Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4,900 rpm (Euro Spec)
Induction Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (Individual Throttle Bodies)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Type:
Getrag 265 5-Speed Manual
Gear Ratios:
Refer to Manual for Specific Ratios (e.g., 3.72 / 2.01 / 1.31 / 1.00 / 0.81)
Type:
None (M3 was exclusively manual)
Clutch Type:
Single Dry Plate, Hydraulic Activation
Differential:
BMW Limited Slip Differential (LSD) Standard
Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW Manual Transmission Fluid (e.g., ATF Dextron II or equivalent, consult manual for specifics)
Crash Testing:
Early 1980s standards, structural integrity of E30 chassis is robust.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Stability Control:
None (Traction control not available on this model)
Airbags:
None (Driver airbag not standard or available in 1981 E30 M3)
Seatbelts:
3-Point Front Seatbelts, Rear Lap Belts
Chassis Design:
Reinforced passenger cell
Audio System:
Original Cassette Player, Optional CD Player (aftermarket typically)
Display:
Analog Gauges (Tachometer, Speedometer, Fuel, Temp)
Bluetooth:
Not Applicable (Requires aftermarket integration)
Oil Change Interval:
10,000-15,000 km or 12 months (Consult manual for precise interval based on driving conditions).
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to manual for specific component checks and replacements (e.g., spark plugs, fuel filter).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50 (e.g., Castrol GTX or equivalent, check manual for specific BMW approvals)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 Liters (5.8 US Quarts) with filter
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or Green Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based)
Common Problems:
Vibrations from driveshaft/CSB, oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), rust (wheel arches, sills), VANOS issues (on later S14 variants if applicable, though not original for '81), coolant hose degradation.
Engine Specific:
Timing chain tensioner, valve adjustment intervals, potential head gasket issues with extreme use.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)
Legacy:
Renowned for performance, engineering, and motorsport pedigree.
Development Purpose:
Homologation special for Group A Touring Car racing.
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight, agile, track-focused, yet road-legal.
Production Years:
1986-1991 (First Generation E30 M3)
Production Volumes:
Limited production, highly sought-after classic.
Manufacturing Location:
Munich, Germany
Motorsport Success:
Multiple touring car championships worldwide (DTM, ETCC, etc.)
Automotive Publications:
Consistently ranked among the best driver's cars of its era.
Collectible Status:
Highly collectible, appreciating asset within the automotive community.
