🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Generation: E21 Production Years Covered: 1975-1983 Codes Chassis Code: E21 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The BMW E21 3 Series represented BMW's entry into the compact executive sports sedan market, a segment it would come to define. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz 190, Alfa Romeo Alfetta, and Ford Capri. Key Features Design Philosophy: Focus on driver engagement, balanced chassis, and premium feel in a smaller package. Engine Options: Offered a range of efficient 4-cylinder (M10) and powerful 6-cylinder (M20) engines, establishing BMW's reputation for performance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types within the E21 generation Page Count Page Count Estimate: Estimated 1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable Digital Format (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed service, repair, and diagnostic procedures for all M10 (4-cylinder) and M20 (6-cylinder) engines fitted to the E21 chassis. Fuel System: Carburetor systems (Zenith, Solex) and early Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection systems. Ignition System: Distributor-based ignition systems, coil, spark plugs, and related components. Cooling System: Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and coolant specifications. Exhaust System: Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (on later models), muffler, and pipework. Transmission: Manual transmissions (4-speed and 5-speed) and automatic transmissions (3-speed). Drivetrain: Clutch operation, driveshafts, differential, and rear axle assembly. Suspension: Front MacPherson struts, rear semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment procedures. Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or optional rear discs on some models), brake hydraulics, and bleeding procedures. Steering: Steering gear, steering column, and power steering systems (if equipped). Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, fuses, relays, and wiring diagrams. Body: Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, and basic bodywork repair. Heating And Ventilation: Heater core, blower motor, and ventilation system components. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, and brake fluid changes. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic charts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues across all vehicle systems. Repair: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation. Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including specifications for machining and assembly. Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and component-level repair. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Print Quality Quality: High quality, ensuring clarity of text and images for easy following of instructions. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) Searchability Text Search: Searchable text for quick access to specific information. Device Compatibility Compatibility: Compatible with PC, Mac, tablets, and mobile phones with Adobe Reader installed. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Family: M10 (4-cylinder) and M20 (6-cylinder) Engine Displacement Options: 1.8L (M10), 2.0L (M10), 2.3L (M20), 2.5L (M20) Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 90 hp (2.0L M10) to 143 hp (2.3L M20) depending on engine variant and market. Torque Range: Approximately 118 lb-ft (2.0L M10) to 153 lb-ft (2.3L M20) depending on engine variant. Fuel System Injection System: Carburetor (Zenith 35/40 INAT, Solex 32/36 DGAV) and Bosch L-Jetronic / K-Jetronic fuel injection (on later models and higher trims like 320i, 323i). Engine Architecture Cylinder Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder and Inline 6-cylinder Engine Maintenance Timing Belt Interval: Refer to manual, typically 40,000 - 60,000 miles for M10, M20 engines (with chain for M20 on later models). 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 4-speed manual Optional Optional Transmission: 5-speed manual and 3-speed ZF automatic transmission Features Clutch Type: Single dry plate, hydraulically operated clutch Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron II (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in) Length: Approx. 4390 mm (172.8 in) Width: Approx. 1610 mm (63.4 in) Height: Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1100-1300 kg (2425-2866 lbs), depending on engine and equipment Wheels Tires Wheel Bolt Pattern: 4x100 Standard Tire Size: 165 R13, 175/70 R13, 185/70 R13 (depending on model and year) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited formal crash test data available from this era, but designed with crumple zones and a strong safety cage typical of BMW. Active Features Braking System: Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes; optional rear disc brakes on some models. Vacuum-assisted brake booster. Passive Features Seatbelts: 3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (later models often featured 3-point rear belts). Steering Column: Collapsible steering column for improved driver safety. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Entertainment: Optional AM/FM radio and cassette player, typically basic systems. Driver Assistance ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature, particularly on later models and...