🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Generation: E30 Model Year: 1986 Codes Chassis Code: E30 Engine Code Variants: S14B23 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Performance Sedan/Coupe segment, iconic homologation special. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16, Alfa Romeo GTV6. Key Features Distinctive Attributes: Legendary motorsport heritage, homologation special for racing series (DTM, Group A), bespoke body panels (fender flares, front air dam, rear spoiler), stiffened chassis, potent S14 engine, exceptional handling. Value Proposition Manual Benefit: Essential tool for maintaining the performance and originality of a highly sought-after classic performance car. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Market Coverage: All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmission Types for 1986 BMW E30 M3 Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 800-1200 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, exact count may vary by specific edition) Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, lubrication, cooling, emissions control. Transmission: Manual transmission (Getrag 265) repair and overhaul, clutch system, driveshafts, differentials. Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding procedures, parking brake. Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, steering rack, power steering system. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, instrument cluster, fuses, relays, ECU diagnostics. Body Chassis: Body panel repair, rust prevention, jacking points, interior trim removal, glass replacement, chassis specifications. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, fluid checks and top-offs, brake checks. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms like starting issues, poor performance, electrical faults. Repair: Step-by-step instructions for major component overhauls and replacements. Diagnostics: Engine code reading (OBD-I era), sensor testing, electrical continuity checks. Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting). 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: High-resolution, searchable PDF with selectable text for easy navigation and printing. Print Quality Printable: Printable pages, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital PDF Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 DOHC Engine Code: S14B23 Displacement: 2302 cc (2.3 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 93.7 mm x 84.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.5:1 Performance Horsepower: 192 hp @ 6,900 rpm (European Spec) Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (European Spec) Redline: 7,200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (later models may have Motronic) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane) Lubrication Oil Type: BMW Longlife-01 (or equivalent synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40, check manual for specific recommendation) Oil Capacity: Approx. 5.0 Liters (with filter) Cooling Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent ethylene glycol-based) Coolant Capacity: Approx. 7.5 Liters 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Model: Getrag 265 Gear Ratios: Typical ratios: 3.72, 2.40, 1.71, 1.24, 0.93 (final drive: 3.15) Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single dry plate Optional Optional Transmission: None (M3 E30 was exclusively manual) Features Limited Slip Differential: Standard (typically 25% lock) Transmission Fluid Type: BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil, check manual) Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approx. 1.3 Liters 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4,330 mm (170.5 in) Width: 1,700 mm (66.9 in) Height: 1,370 mm (53.9 in) Wheelbase: 2,565 mm (101.0 in) Front Track: 1,404 mm (55.3 in) Rear Track: 1,420 mm (55.9 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1,200 kg (2,646 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs) Towing Capacity: Not Recommended Wheels Tires Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x120 mm Standard Wheel Size: 15x7 inches (Style 29 or BBS RS) Standard Tire Size: 205/55 VR 15 Optional Wheel Size: 16x7 inches (optional on later models, check specific market) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited official crash test data available for this specific era and homologation model in many markets. Refer to general E30 chassis safety information. Active Features ABS: Optional on some models Passive Features Seatbelts: 3-point front, 2-point rear (standard) Rollover Protection: Integral roll cage structure within the chassis, enhanced rigidity compared to standard E30. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio System: Factory BMW AM/FM Cassette (e.g., Bavaria C II or similar) or optional CD player. Aftermarket upgrades are common. Speaker System: Basic 4-speaker system typically. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional Trip Computer: Limited (basic check control system) Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity: None (Aftermarket addition required) Diagnostic Features OBD Standard: OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, first generation, often accessed via diagnostic port under the hood). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, using synthetic oil. Spark Plug Replacement: Approximately every 30,000-40,000 km (20,000-25,000 miles), depending...
Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16, Alfa Romeo GTV6.
Key Features
Distinctive Attributes:
Legendary motorsport heritage, homologation special for racing series (DTM, Group A), bespoke body panels (fender flares, front air dam, rear spoiler), stiffened chassis, potent S14 engine, exceptional handling.
Value Proposition
Manual Benefit:
Essential tool for maintaining the performance and originality of a highly sought-after classic performance car.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Market Coverage:
All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmission Types for 1986 BMW E30 M3
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 800-1200 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, exact count may vary by specific edition)
16x7 inches (optional on later models, check specific market)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this specific era and homologation model in many markets. Refer to general E30 chassis safety information.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional on some models
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
3-point front, 2-point rear (standard)
Rollover Protection:
Integral roll cage structure within the chassis, enhanced rigidity compared to standard E30.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio System:
Factory BMW AM/FM Cassette (e.g., Bavaria C II or similar) or optional CD player. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Speaker System:
Basic 4-speaker system typically.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional
Trip Computer:
Limited (basic check control system)
Connectivity
Bluetooth Connectivity:
None (Aftermarket addition required)
Diagnostic Features
OBD Standard:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, first generation, often accessed via diagnostic port under the hood).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, using synthetic oil.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000-40,000 km (20,000-25,000 miles), depending on usage and plug type.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (DOT 4)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or compatible hydraulic fluid (check manual)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Engine Common Problems:
Valve stem seals, oil pan gasket leaks, timing chain tensioner wear, VANOS (if later model), occasional head gasket issues under extreme use.
Chassis Common Problems:
Subframe mounting points rust, rear shock tower reinforcement cracking, suspension bushing wear, door seal degradation, rust in common E30 areas (wheel arches, rocker panels).
Regular oil changes with quality synthetic, diligent rust inspection and preventative measures, checking and replacing aging rubber components (bushings, hoses, seals).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
BMW's rich history in motorsport, building on success with models like the 2002 and the E21 323i.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
Limited direct predecessor within the M3 lineage, though it built on the E30 chassis platform.
Successor:
BMW E36 M3
Production
Production Years:
1986-1991
Manufacturing Location:
Munich, Germany
Total Production Units:
Approx. 17,970 units (including Evolution models)
Motorsport Connection
Homologation Purpose:
Developed to homologate the E30 for Group A touring car racing, particularly the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press Awards:
Consistently lauded by automotive press for its handling, driving dynamics, and motorsport pedigree. Often cited as one of the best driver's cars of its era.
Collectible Status:
Highly collectible classic sports car, increasing in value among enthusiasts.