🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 7 Series Generation Code: E23 Model Year: 1981 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Luxury Sedan Target Audience: Owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts seeking detailed information Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Provides factory-level repair data, replacing multiple physical manuals, cost-effective for DIY repairs. Key Features Digital Convenience: Single PDF format, easily printable, zoomable images, searchable content (likely). Accuracy: Vehicle-specific, dealership-used information, not generic. Completeness: A-Z coverage of all models and repairs. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Focus: Service and Repair Scope: All models and all repairs A-Z Page Count Estimated Pages: Extensive (specific number not provided, but implied to be comprehensive) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF Compatibility: Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac Printability: Yes, all pages printable 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete engine disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair Engine Control: Fuel system, emission control, ignition system, starting system, charging system Drivetrain: Automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch, transfer case (if applicable), propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axles Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension, steering column, power steering system Brakes: Brake control systems, hydraulic brakes, parking brake Wheels Tires: Tire and wheel service, specifications Cooling Lubrication: Cooling system service, lubrication system service Electrical Body: Complete electrical system, wiring schematics, interior and exterior trim, doors, locks, lighting, instruments, HVAC Comfort Convenience: Air conditioning, cruise control, seat belts, supplementary restraint systems (SRS - if applicable), wiper/washer system, horn Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for all major systems Repair Rebuild: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding Specifications: Torque specifications, fluid types and capacities, clearances, electrical values Wiring Schematics: Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level, dealership technician quality, comprehensive from basic to advanced repairs 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely searchable text within PDF, though not explicitly stated Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution digital reproduction of factory documents Illustration Quality: Clear diagrams and illustrations suitable for printing Binding Type Binding Type: Not applicable (digital format) Paper Type Paper Type: Not applicable (digital format), printable on user's choice of paper ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options E23: Likely includes M30 series inline-six engines (e.g., 732i, 735i, 745i) Performance Displacement E23: Ranges typically from 3.2L to 4.0L depending on specific model variant (e.g., 732i, 735i, 745i) Horsepower E23: Varies by engine, typically 197 hp to 252 hp for the M30 engines offered. Torque E23: Varies by engine, typically 210 lb-ft to 270 lb-ft for the M30 engines offered. Fuel System Fuel Injection Type: Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection systems 🔧 Transmission Standard Manual Transmission Availability: Available on certain models (e.g., Getrag 4 or 5-speed) Optional Automatic Transmission Availability: Standard on many models or a common option (e.g., ZF 3 or 4-speed automatic) Features Transmission Control: Hydromechanical or electronic control depending on transmission type 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase E23: Approximately 116.5 inches (2960 mm) Length E23: Approximately 199.8 inches (5075 mm) Width E23: Approximately 70.5 inches (1791 mm) Height E23: Approximately 54.1 inches (1374 mm) Weights Curb Weight E23: Approximately 3600-3900 lbs (1630-1770 kg) depending on configuration 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Era: Vehicle safety standards of the early 1980s; specific ratings may be limited. Active Features ABS Availability: Optional on some models, becoming more common as the E23 generation progressed. Traction Control Availability: Not typically available on E23 models. Passive Features Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts front and rear Airbags: Driver airbag became available later in the E23 lifecycle, but not standard for 1981. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory installed radio with AM/FM, cassette player. Display Technology: Basic analog gauges and indicator lights. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Electronic cruise control system available on many models. Connectivity Multiplex Can Communication: Not present in the modern CAN bus sense; electrical systems are more discrete. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and specific oil used. Tune Up Interval: Spark plugs and ignition system checks/replacements typically around 30,000 miles. Coolant Flush: Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG/SH or higher, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate. Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid Transmission Fluid Type Auto: Dexron III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Transmission Fluid Type Manual: GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90 Known Issues Fuel System Common: Fuel distributor, injector seals, fuel pump issues with age. Electrical Common: Wiring harness degradation, alternator, starter issues, fuse box corrosion. Cooling System Common: Radiator leaks, thermostat failure, water pump seal leaks. Suspension...
Radiator leaks, thermostat failure, water pump seal leaks.
Suspension Common:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers, and strut mounts.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
Focus on 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', blending performance, luxury, and advanced engineering.
Model Evolution
E23 Introduction:
Introduced in 1977 as the successor to the E12 5 Series and the predecessor to the E32 7 Series.
E23 Facelift:
The 1981 model year is part of the pre-facelift E23 range. Facelifts typically occurred mid-generation.
Production
Production Years:
1977-1986
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
E23 Reputation:
Widely regarded as a benchmark for luxury sedans of its era, praised for engineering and comfort.
Industry Awards Era:
While specific awards for 1981 models are not easily cataloged, the E23 generation consistently received praise from automotive press for its innovation and driving dynamics.