🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 320i Chassis Code: E30 Model Years Covered: 1987-1991 Codes Engine Code Primary: M20B20 Engine Code Secondary: M20B23 (possible inclusion for later E30 variants) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The BMW E30 3 Series, particularly the 320i, was a benchmark in the compact executive sedan market, offering a blend of sporty handling, refined engineering, and premium appeal. This manual targets owners and independent workshops seeking to maintain and repair these classic vehicles. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and Alfa Romeo 75. The E30 was lauded for its driving dynamics and build quality. Key Features Key Features: User-friendly layout, step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams and illustrations, comprehensive coverage of all vehicle systems, essential for maintaining the classic BMW driving experience. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, interior, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair. Page Count Page Count: Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals) Manual Type Manual Type: Professional Workshop Service & Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete overhaul, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine diagnostics. Transmission: Manual transmission (Getrag 260) and automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts. Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or optional rear disc for later models), brake system hydraulics, ABS (if equipped), parking brake. Suspension Steering: Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, ball joints, tie rods, steering rack, power steering system. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, instrument cluster, fuse box, relays, power windows, central locking, radio. Bodywork Chassis: Body panel removal/installation, frame specifications, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, sound deadening. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, belt checks and replacement, lubrication points. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts, fault code interpretation (where applicable), symptom-based problem solving. Repair: Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair. Diagnostics: Component testing, sensor readings, fuel pressure testing, compression testing, electrical circuit testing. Technical Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format Details: High-resolution PDF, searchable text, bookmark functionality for easy navigation, printable pages. Print Quality Print Quality: Professional quality, clear diagrams and text, suitable for printing. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, 24-valve (SOHC) Displacement: 1990 cc (2.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 80.0 mm x 66.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.8:1 or 9.4:1 (depending on market and specific engine variant) Performance Horsepower: Approximately 129-137 hp (DIN) at 6000 rpm Torque: Approximately 174-180 Nm (128-133 lb-ft) at 4300 rpm Fuel System Fuel System Type: Bosch LE-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 recommended) Fluid Capacities Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.25 liters (4.5 US quarts) with filter change 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed manual (Getrag 260) Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22) Features Clutch Type: Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in) Width: Approx. 1640 mm (64.6 in) Height: Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1220-1280 kg (2690-2820 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight: Approx. 1700 kg (3748 lbs) Fuel Tank Capacity: Approx. 55 liters (14.5 US gallons) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: As this is a pre-airbag era vehicle, formal crash test ratings from modern agencies are not directly comparable. However, the E30 chassis was known for its robust construction and safety cage. Active Features Active Features: Power-assisted steering, disc/drum brake system, limited-slip differential (optional). Passive Features Passive Features: Safety cage construction, crumple zones, padded dashboard, three-point seatbelts (front), head restraints. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment Features: Basic analog radio, cassette player, optional period-specific CD players. Limited connectivity by modern standards. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on some models and years. Connectivity Connectivity Options: None by modern definition. Primarily focused on mechanical and electrical functionality. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions). Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000-40,000 km (20,000-25,000 miles). Coolant Replacement Interval: Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles). Timing Belt Replacement: Every 60,000-100,000 km (37,000-60,000 miles) or 5-7 years for M20 engines. Fluid Specifications Coolant Type: BMW-approved antifreeze/coolant (G48 or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Brake Fluid: DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified by BMW for...
M20B23 (possible inclusion for later E30 variants)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Market Position:
The BMW E30 3 Series, particularly the 320i, was a benchmark in the compact executive sedan market, offering a blend of sporty handling, refined engineering, and premium appeal. This manual targets owners and independent workshops seeking to maintain and repair these classic vehicles.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and Alfa Romeo 75. The E30 was lauded for its driving dynamics and build quality.
Key Features
Key Features:
User-friendly layout, step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams and illustrations, comprehensive coverage of all vehicle systems, essential for maintaining the classic BMW driving experience.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Areas:
All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, interior, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair.
Page Count
Page Count:
Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Comprehensive from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Professional quality, clear diagrams and text, suitable for printing.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, 24-valve (SOHC)
Displacement:
1990 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 or 9.4:1 (depending on market and specific engine variant)
Performance
Horsepower:
Approximately 129-137 hp (DIN) at 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 174-180 Nm (128-133 lb-ft) at 4300 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel System Type:
Bosch LE-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 recommended)
Fluid Capacities
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.25 liters (4.5 US quarts) with filter change
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (Getrag 260)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1640 mm (64.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1220-1280 kg (2690-2820 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1700 kg (3748 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 55 liters (14.5 US gallons)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Ratings:
As this is a pre-airbag era vehicle, formal crash test ratings from modern agencies are not directly comparable. However, the E30 chassis was known for its robust construction and safety cage.
BMW, founded in 1916, has a long-standing reputation for producing premium, driver-focused vehicles with a strong emphasis on engineering and performance. The 'Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan was cemented with models like the E30.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The E30 was the second generation of the 3 Series, succeeding the E21. It introduced a more refined chassis, independent rear suspension, and a wider range of engine options, solidifying its position as a benchmark sports sedan. The 320i was a popular entry-level model in many markets.
Production
Production Years:
1982-1994 (E30 platform)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, USA, Mexico.
Sales Figures
Sales Figures:
Over 2.3 million E30s were produced globally across all body styles and variants.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
Consistently ranked as one of the best-handling sedans of its era by automotive journalists. The E30 platform also spawned highly successful racing variants (e.g., M3) that garnered significant accolades.
Ratings
Ratings:
Often praised for its build quality and driver engagement. 'Motor Trend' Car of the Year (1984) for the 325e, which shares many platform similarities.