Step-by-step guides for component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Rebuilding Overhauls:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances.
Body Panel Alignment:
Guidance on adjusting doors, hood, and trunk for proper fit and seal.
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications for camber, caster, and toe angles.
Refrigerant Handling:
Procedures for A/C system evacuation and recharging (with safety precautions).
Electrical Component Testing:
Using multimeters for voltage, resistance, and continuity tests.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including specialized systems like ABS and climate control.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Extensive use of diagrams, schematics, and exploded views for clarity.
Torque Specifications:
All critical fasteners and component assembly torques included.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific or recommended special tools.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format Details:
Typically PDF, allowing for digital searchability and printing of specific sections.
Print Quality
Scan Quality:
High-resolution scans ensuring readability of text and clarity of diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding For Physical Copy:
If a printed version, likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type
Paper Quality For Physical Copy:
Durable, matte-finish paper to reduce glare and withstand workshop conditions.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 735I:
M30B35
Engine Displacement 735I:
3.430 cc (3.4 L)
Engine Cylinders 735I:
Inline-6
Engine Valvetrain 735I:
SOHC, 12 valves (2 valves per cylinder)
Engine Code 750I:
M70B50
Engine Displacement 750I:
4.988 cc (5.0 L)
Engine Cylinders 750I:
V12
Engine Valvetrain 750I:
SOHC, 24 valves (2 valves per cylinder)
Performance
Horsepower 735I Est:
208 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque 735I Est:
290 Nm (214 lb-ft) @ 4,000 rpm
Horsepower 750I Est:
296 hp @ 5,200 rpm
Torque 750I Est:
470 Nm (347 lb-ft) @ 3,900 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (MFI)
Recommended Fuel Octane:
Premium Unleaded (91 RON or higher)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission 735I:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Standard Transmission 750I:
4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP24)
Optional
Optional Transmission 735I:
5-speed manual (Getrag 265, less common)
Features
Transmission Features:
Sport mode selection (often), electronically controlled gear shifts.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Swb:
2,830 mm (111.4 in)
Wheelbase Lwb:
3,070 mm (120.9 in)
Length Swb:
4,910 mm (193.3 in)
Length Lwb:
5,160 mm (203.2 in)
Weights
Curb Weight 735I Est:
1,700 kg (3,748 lbs)
Curb Weight 750I Est:
1,900 kg (4,189 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
E32 Crash Test Era:
As 1990 vehicle, comprehensive NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings are not directly comparable to modern standards but was built to high safety standards for its time.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on all models (Bosch ABS II or III).
Traction Control Asc:
Optional on some models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional or later standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System Type:
Basic radio/cassette system, often with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Hi-Fi).
Navigation:
Optional early GPS navigation systems were available on some models.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Electronic Damping Control Edc:
Optional feature allowing driver to adjust suspension damping.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on audio input (cassette).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Refer to manual for specific BMW recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 50,000 km (30,000 miles).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Often considered 'lifetime' by manufacturers, but recommended for replacement every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) for longevity, especially for automatics.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type 735I:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate (e.g., Castrol GTX 20W-50 was common).
Engine Oil Type 750I:
API SG/SH, SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact BMW spec, often required synthetic).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue coolant or compatible G-48 ethylene glycol coolant. (e.g., BMW Part # 82141467704)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III, or Pentosin CHF 11S (check specific model/year).
Transmission Fluid Auto 735I:
ZF approved ATF (e.g., Dexron II, Mobil ATF 220).
Transmission Fluid Auto 750I:
ZF approved ATF (e.g., Dexron III, Mobil ATF 3309).
Known Issues
Common E32 Issues Electrical:
Vibration damper on crank pulley failure, wiring harness degradation (especially in engine bay), EML (Engine Load Management) issues, central locking pump failure, instrument cluster pixelation.
Common E32 Issues Mechanical:
Head gasket leaks (M30), oil pan leaks, cooling system leaks (plastic components), suspension bushings wear, driveshaft center bearing failure.
Common E32 Issues Comfort:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure, door seal leaks, window regulator issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, known for engineering excellence, performance ("The Ultimate Driving Machine"), and luxury.
Model Evolution
E32 Introduction Year:
1986
E32 Design Team:
Chief designer: Claus Luthe.
E32 Facelift:
Minor updates throughout its life, with significant changes often related to engine management and optional features.
Production
E32 Production Years:
1986-1994
E32 Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
E32 Industry Awards:
While specific awards for the 1990 model year might be less documented than modern vehicles, the E32 series was highly regarded for its engineering, comfort, and performance, often praised in contemporary automotive journalism.
Ratings
E32 Editorial Reviews:
Consistently reviewed as one of the finest luxury sedans, especially the V12 750i, for its blend of performance and refinement.