Front strut assembly, rear trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, wheel bearings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering pump, hydraulic lines, steering column, tie rods, steering knuckle, alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuses, relays, lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, central locking.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, convertible top operation and repair, interior trim, dashboard, seats, HVAC system (heater core, A/C components, blower motor).
Hydraulic and mechanical system maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of the soft top mechanism.
Technical Depth
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
References diagnostic procedures and test points, may require basic multimeter and logic probe for older systems.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners and assemblies.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specific measurement requirements for critical engine and drivetrain components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, often color-coded, wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF, enabling quick navigation to specific topics.
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
Varies, but typically sufficient for clear viewing of diagrams and text in official or well-scanned manuals.
Binding Type
Binding For Digital:
N/A (Digital format)
Paper Type
Paper Type For Digital:
N/A (Digital format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (typical)
Performance
Horsepower:
170 hp @ 5,800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
210 Nm (155 lb-ft) @ 4,800 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic (L-Jet) or Motronic (MFI) fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating 91 or higher recommended)
Ignition System
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition with knock control (Motronic)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch (manual)
Gear Ratios Manual Example:
1st: 3.75, 2nd: 2.13, 3rd: 1.40, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.81, Reverse: 3.75 (approximate, may vary slightly by specific model/year)
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-4)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF TE-ML 09 or Dexron II/III equivalent
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
168.4 inches (4277 mm)
Width:
66.5 inches (1689 mm)
Height:
53.6 inches (1361 mm)
Wheelbase:
101.2 inches (2570 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,000 - 3,200 lbs (1360 - 1450 kg) depending on options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN plate for specific GVWR
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 11.2 cu ft (317 liters), reduced by convertible top mechanism.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Ratings:
No official modern NHTSA/IIHS ratings available for this era. E30 chassis is known for good structural integrity for its time but lacks modern safety advancements.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on later models/some trims.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag was a late option, not standard on all models/years.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts front and rear.
Roll Bar:
Integrated roll-over protection structure within the windshield frame and rear deck.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted cassette player or radio, often with premium speaker options (e.g., Blaupunkt, Harman Kardon on higher trims).
Navigation:
Not available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional.
Connectivity
Aux Input:
Not standard, aftermarket solutions typically required.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Check manual for precise recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles (30,000-50,000 km).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-100,000 km) or 5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or as per manual, regardless of mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40, API SG or higher. Consult manual for specific BMW approvals and viscosity for climate.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 7.1 (check specific reservoir cap/manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4.
Known Issues
Common Mechanical Issues:
Cracked exhaust manifolds, worn engine mounts, coolant leaks (especially heater core and hose connections), fuel pump failure, starter motor failure, differential mount cracking, subframe cracking (rear), seized sway bar links.
Leaking seals, hydraulic cylinder leaks or failures, frayed cables, motor failure, canvas degradation, sticking mechanism.
Common Body Issues:
Rust, particularly around wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, and battery tray area. Worn door seals leading to water ingress.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Heritage:
BMW's reputation for producing driver-focused, high-quality vehicles with sophisticated engineering.
Model Evolution
E30 Lineage:
The E30 generation (1982-1994) was a pivotal model for BMW, solidifying its reputation for sporty driving characteristics. The 325i Convertible, introduced in 1985, added a stylish open-top variant.
325I Specifics:
The 325i model replaced the less powerful 323i and 325e in many markets, offering a more potent M20 engine. The 'i' denotes fuel injection.