🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Specific Models Covered: 320, 320i, 323i Body Styles Covered: Sedan, Coupe, Convertible Generation Chassis Code: E21 Production Years Start Year: 1975 End Year: 1983 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Premium compact sports sedan and coupe Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 80, Alfa Romeo Alfetta Key Features Design Philosophy: Driver-focused, sporty handling, build quality Target Audience: Enthusiasts seeking performance and luxury in a compact package 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Factory Service Manual Secondary Coverage: Parts Catalogue Page Count Total Pages: 700+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Comprehensive engine repair and overhaul Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission service Suspension: Front and rear suspension diagnosis and repair Steering: Steering system components and alignment Brakes: Brake system service, including hydraulics and components Body: Body panel repair, chassis alignment, and corrosion prevention Body Equipment: Interior trim, seating, glass, and weatherstripping Electrical System: Full electrical system diagnosis and repair Equipment And Accessories: HVAC, infotainment, and optional equipment servicing Wiring Diagrams: Detailed wiring schematics for all systems Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine service, fluid changes, filter replacements Repair: Component replacement, adjustment, and rebuilding Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults Diagnostics: System testing and fault identification methods Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive factory-level repair information 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text content Printability: Printable pages Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 320: M10 Engine Type 320: Inline-4 Cylinder Displacement 320: 1.99 liters (1990 cc) Fuel System 320: Carbureted (Solex 40 PDSIT) for 320, Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection for 320i Engine Code 323 Engine Code 323: M20 Engine Type 323 Engine Type 323: Inline-6 Cylinder Displacement 323 Displacement 323: 2.3 liters (2316 cc) Fuel System 323 Fuel System 323: Bosch K-Jetronic Fuel Injection Performance Horsepower 320I: 125 hp (93 kW) @ 5800 rpm (approx.) Torque 320I: 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approx.) Horsepower 323I: 143 hp (107 kW) @ 5800 rpm (approx.) Torque 323I: 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (approx.) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission 320: 4-speed manual Transmission 323: 4-speed manual Optional Transmission Optional 320: 3-speed automatic (ZF 3HP18) Transmission Optional 323: 4-speed manual (Getrag 245) or 3-speed automatic Features Clutch Type: Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 2563 mm (100.9 in) Length Sedan: 4360 mm (171.7 in) Width: 1625 mm (64.0 in) Height: 1380 mm (54.3 in) Weights Curb Weight 320I: Approx. 1160 kg (2557 lbs) Curb Weight 323I: Approx. 1210 kg (2668 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Safety: N/A (No formal crash test data from the era in modern format) Active Features Brakes: Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Drums Steering System: Recirculating ball steering, optional power steering Passive Features Seatbelts: Standard front seatbelts, optional rear Rollover Protection: Reinforced A-pillars, integral roll bar for convertible 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio: Optional AM/FM radio, often Blaupunkt Speakers: Limited speaker configurations, often front only Driver Assistance ABS: Not available on most E21 models, optional on later 323i Cruise Control: Rare optional feature Connectivity Connectivity Features: None (pre-digital era) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000-7,500 miles (or as per manual recommendations, typically 7,500 miles for modern use) Tune Up Interval: As needed, typically every 20,000-30,000 miles for spark plugs and filter replacements Fluid Specifications Engine Oil 320: API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (consult manual for exact viscosity based on climate) Engine Oil 323: API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (consult manual for exact viscosity based on climate) Coolant: 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Transmission Fluid Manual: GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90) Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron III (or equivalent) Known Issues Rust Prone Areas: Wheel arches, rocker panels, front strut towers, rear valence Fuel System Issues: Deterioration of fuel lines, issues with early fuel injection systems (320i/323i) Electrical Gremlins: Aging wiring harnesses, corrosion in connectors Cooling System: Radiator leaks, hose degradation, thermostat issues Engine Wear M10: Timing chain stretch and guides (if not replaced), oil leaks Engine Wear M20: Head gasket issues, oil pan seal leaks, timing belt (later M20s, but E21 M20 is chain driven) Filter Part Numbers Oil Filter Example: Mann-Filter W 920/17, Mahle OC 104 (check specific engine) Air Filter Example: Mann-Filter C 32 133, Mahle LX 75 (check specific engine) 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Legacy: Known for sporting sedans and efficient engineering Model Evolution E21 Significance: First generation 3 Series, established BMW's reputation in the compact executive segment Design Influence: Paul Bracq design, distinctive shark nose front end Production Production Location: Munich, Germany and Rosslyn, South Africa Total Production Units: Over...