This comprehensive service and repair manual is specifically designed for the BMW 3 Series E21 model, encompassing the 320, 320i, 323i, and 325i variants. Originally crafted for BMW dealership mechanics, this manual provides you with the detailed insights and instructions necessary to confidently tackle a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks on your vehicle. The manual's clear and concise layout includes step-by-step procedures, accompanied by illustrative pictures, exploded view diagrams, schematics, and essential specifications. This wealth of information empowers you to effectively diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve issues, ensuring your BMW remains in peak condition and on the road where it belongs.

The BMW 3 Series (E21) was the first generation of the iconic BMW 3 Series range, produced from 1975 to 1983. Designed to be a sporty and agile compact car, the E21 was a significant departure from BMW's previous offerings. It featured a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, a unibody construction, and a McPherson strut front suspension paired with a semi-trailing arm rear suspension. The E21 was initially available with a range of four-cylinder engines, including the 1.6-liter M10 engine in the 316, the 1.8-liter M10 engine in the 318, and the 2.0-liter M10 engine in the 320, all sharing the same basic design but with varying power outputs. Later model years saw the introduction of the 2.3-liter M20 engine in the 323i, and the 2.5-liter M20 engine in the 325i, bringing more power and performance to the platform.

Despite its compact size, the E21 was renowned for its driving dynamics and handling prowess. The car's balanced weight distribution, responsive steering, and precise gear changes provided an engaging and rewarding driving experience. The E21 3 Series also introduced several innovative features, including the optional sunroof, the first BMW model to do so, as well as the optional five-speed manual transmission, which further enhanced the car's sporty nature. The E21's success led to the development of the successful E30 3 Series, which refined and expanded upon the E21's core strengths, further solidifying the 3 Series nameplate as a benchmark for sport sedans. The E21 3 Series remains a popular classic among enthusiasts, offering a blend of historical significance, timeless design, and a rewarding driving experience.