🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Model Variant: 316, 316i Year: 1985 Codes Chassis Code: E30 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe Brand Perception: Known for sporty handling, build quality, and a premium driving experience. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo 75, Saab 900 Key Features Driving Dynamics: Rear-wheel drive platform, well-balanced chassis, praised for driver engagement. Engineering: Typical BMW engineering focus on reliability, performance, and driver-centric design. Manual Utility Target Audience: BMW owners, independent mechanics, DIY enthusiasts seeking to maintain or repair their E30 316/316i. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Markets Covered: Global (All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmission Types) Page Count Estimated Pages: Comprehensive (Exact count not specified in product info, typical for workshop manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M10 family), Fuel System (Carbureted and Injection), Ignition System, Exhaust System Drivetrain: Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (if applicable), Driveshafts, Differential, Axles Chassis And Suspension: Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Semi-Trailing Arm), Steering System, Brakes (Front Discs, Rear Drums typical), Wheels and Tires Electrical System: Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System, Lighting System, Ignition System, Fuel Injection Control (Motronic for 'i' models), Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Power Accessories (Windows, Mirrors if equipped) Body And Interior: Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning - if equipped) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Transmission Fluid), Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Fault Code Interpretation (for Motronic systems) Repair And Overhaul: Engine Rebuild Procedures, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Bodywork Repairs Specifications And Tolerances: Torque Specifications, Clearances, Component Dimensions, Electrical Resistance Values Special Tools: Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools required for certain repairs Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable (depending on PDF creation process) Print Quality Quality: Dependent on original source; typically clear line drawings and text Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 316: M10B18 (typically 1.8L carbureted) Engine Code 316I: M10B18 (typically 1.8L with Bosch Motronic fuel injection) Performance Displacement Liters: 1.8 Horsepower 316: Approx. 90-105 hp (market dependent) Horsepower 316I: Approx. 105 hp (market dependent) Torque Nm 316: Approx. 135-140 Nm Torque Nm 316I: Approx. 145 Nm Fuel System Fuel Delivery 316: Carburetor (e.g., Solex 32/32 DIDTA or similar) Fuel Delivery 316I: Bosch LE-Jetronic or L-Jetronic fuel injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91/95) Engine Configuration Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) Cooling System Cooling Type: Water-cooled 🔧 Transmission Standard Type 316: 4-speed Manual Type 316I: 5-speed Manual (Getrag 260 typical) Optional Type: 3-speed Automatic (ZF 3HP22 typical) Features Clutch Type: Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, Convertible (later models) Wheelbase Mm: 2570 Length Mm: Approx. 4325 Width Mm: Approx. 1675 Height Mm: Approx. 1380 Weights Curb Weight Kg: Approx. 1100-1200 kg (varies by body style and equipment) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg: Typically around 1600-1700 kg 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Era: NHTSA/Euro NCAP standards of the era; less stringent than modern standards. Active Features Brakes Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes (typical) Brakes Rear: Drum Brakes (typical) Steering: Recirculating ball steering (power assist optional/standard depending on market) Passive Features Seatbelts: 3-point inertia reel seatbelts (front), 2-point seatbelts (rear typical) Body Structure: Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones (front and rear) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Aftermarket or original BMW radio/cassette player (various brands/models offered) Driver Assistance ABS: Optional on some models/markets, not standard on all 316/316i. Connectivity Phone Integration: Not applicable (pre-mobile phone era) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for exact recommendation) Spark Plugs: Replace every 20,000-30,000 miles (depending on type) Timing Belt Chain: M10 engine uses a timing chain, generally considered maintenance-free unless issues arise. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended (refer to manual for precise viscosity based on climate) Coolant: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil Transmission Fluid Automatic: ATF Dexron II or III (ZF spec) Differential Fluid: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil Known Issues Rust Prone Areas: Wheel arches, rocker panels, sunroof drains, rear strut towers. Cooling System Failures: Cracked plastic expansion tanks, failed water pumps, radiator leaks. Fuel System Issues Carb: Carburetor wear, vacuum leaks, fuel pump issues. Fuel System Issues Inj: Faulty fuel injectors, weak fuel...
Introduced a new era of BMW design, moving away from the angular Neue Klasse styling. Hugely successful globally.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, USA (SC)
Total E30 Production:
Over 2.1 million units across all body styles and variants.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
While the E30 chassis as a whole was highly acclaimed and featured in 10Best lists, specific 316/316i variants may not have been individually highlighted as frequently as higher-performance models like the 325i.
Ratings
Historical Road Tests:
Consistently praised for handling, build quality, and driver feel by automotive publications of the time.