🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 5 Series Model Variant: 518, 518i Year: 1985 Codes Chassis Code: E28 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive Sedan Positioning Statement: The BMW 5 Series (E28) represented a refined and sporty executive sedan, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced engineering for its era. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1985: Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6, Volvo 740/760 Key Features Design Philosophy: Hofmeister Kink, kidney grille, driver-oriented cockpit Engineering Focus: Rear-wheel drive dynamics, balanced weight distribution, robust build quality 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Coverage Scope: Comprehensive factory service and repair Page Count Estimated Page Count: Hundreds of pages (exact number not specified, but implies extensive detail) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions control Transmission Systems: Manual transmission, automatic transmission (if applicable for model variant), clutch, driveline Suspension Steering Brakes: Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, hydraulic brake system, ABS (if equipped) Electrical Systems: Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, control modules Body Chassis: Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, HVAC system, chassis components Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and replacements Repair Procedures: Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake service, electrical component repair, body panel repair Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code identification (if applicable) Specifications Data: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data, diagnostic parameters Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Full factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Printability: Printable in its entirety or individual pages Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 518: M10 (4-cylinder, 8-valve) Engine Code 518I: M10 (4-cylinder, 8-valve with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection) Displacement Engine Displacement Cc: 1766 Performance 518 Horsepower 518: 90 HP (approx.) Torque 518 Lb-Ft: 100 lb-ft (approx.) Performance 518I Horsepower 518I: 99 HP (approx.) Torque 518I Lb-Ft: 105 lb-ft (approx.) Fuel System Fuel System 518: Carbureted (e.g., Solex or Pierburg) Fuel System 518I: Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection Compression Ratio Compression Ratio: 8.0:1 or 8.3:1 (depending on specific variant) Block Material Engine Block Material: Cast Iron Head Material Cylinder Head Material: Aluminum Alloy 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed manual Optional Optional Transmission Type: 3-speed automatic (ZF 3HP22 or similar) Features Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Mm: 4620 Width Mm: 1700 Height Mm: 1420 Weights Curb Weight Kg: 1280-1350 (approx., depending on transmission and options) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg: 1800-1850 (approx.) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Safety Era Assessment: Designed to contemporary European safety standards, robust chassis construction for the era Active Features ABS Availability: Optional on some models/markets Passive Features Seatbelts: Standard front seatbelts, optional rear seatbelts Crumple Zones: Designed with front and rear crumple zones Steering Column: Collapsible steering column 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player (optional), basic speaker systems. Dashboard Controls: Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature; basic climate controls. Driver Assistance Cruise Control Availability: Optional Connectivity Connectivity Features: N/A (no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Km: 7,500 - 10,000 km (or 6-12 months, check manual for specific conditions) Spark Plug Replacement Km: 20,000 - 30,000 km (depending on spark plug type) Timing Belt Replacement Km: N/A (M10 engine uses a timing chain) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature) Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol-based coolant, BMW blue or equivalent Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron II or equivalent Known Issues Common Problems Engine: Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (heater core, hoses), carburetor tuning issues (on 518), fuel injection component wear (on 518i). Common Problems Suspension Steering: Worn control arm bushings, worn tie rod ends, power steering leaks. Common Problems Electrical: Corroded grounds, faulty fuse box connections, aging wiring harnesses, headlight switch issues. Common Problems Rust: Rust in wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows is common due to age. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Philosophy: Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on sporty handling and engineering excellence. Model Evolution E28 Introduction: Introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12 5 Series. E28 Design Influence: Design influenced by Paul Bracq and Claus Luthe, featuring a more modern and angular aesthetic than its predecessor. E28 Variants: Evolved through various engine sizes and performance models (518, 520i, 524d, 525e,...
The BMW 5 Series (E28) represented a refined and sporty executive sedan, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced engineering for its era.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors 1985:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6, Volvo 740/760
Rust in wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows is common due to age.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on sporty handling and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E28 Introduction:
Introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12 5 Series.
E28 Design Influence:
Design influenced by Paul Bracq and Claus Luthe, featuring a more modern and angular aesthetic than its predecessor.
E28 Variants:
Evolved through various engine sizes and performance models (518, 520i, 524d, 525e, 528i, 535i, M535i, M5).
Production
E28 Production Years:
1981-1987
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journal Awards:
While specific awards for the 518/518i are not widely cited, the E28 platform generally received positive reviews for its driving dynamics and build quality from contemporary automotive press.
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