BMW E30
Encyclopedia
The BMW E30 was a compact executive car
produced by BMW. It was replaced by the BMW E36
in 1990. BMW
continued to produce the cabriolet (convertible
) E30 well into 1993. The Touring remained in production until 1994 when the E36 touring replaced it. The M3 cabriolet was never officially offered for sale in North America
; it was offered only for the Europe
an market.
The BMW M3
was first introduced on the E30 platform. A widened version of the E30 front suspension and the drivetrain from the E30 325i were used in the BMW Z1
roadster
.
The E30 3-Series was produced in four body styles, a four door saloon, a two door saloon, a five door estate
(marketed as the "touring"),a three-door estate
also called "Touring", and a two door convertible. A Baur
cabrio was also available. The 325ix was produced from 1988 to 1991, and featured all-wheel drive. It was available as a two-door (sedan
) or a four-door (sedan) and as touring. The BMW M3
utilised a widened and heavily redesigned and restyled variation of the 2 door body style. The M3 shares few parts with other E30 models, however many M3 parts can be used on the other body styles and are interchangeable offering the consumer an OEM "upgrade". These parts consist of control arms, control arm bushings, steering racks, etc.
The primary distinctive feature of the BMW E30 models produced for the North American market in 1984-1987 are the elongated front/rear aluminum bumpers. These bumpers are commonly known as "diving boards." In 1988, the anodized aluminum bumpers were shortened by revising the cover/fillers and shortening the shocks. In 1989 the aluminum bumpers were replaced with shorter body-color plastic bumpers.
The cars were powered by a range of inline 4 cylinder
(BMW M10
, BMW M40
, & BMW M42
) and inline 6 cylinder
(BMW M20
and BMW M21
) engines, with both petrol and diesel power. Torque output for the engines ranges from 140 newton metre torque
for the 1.8 L
(1766 cc) 4 cylinder engine, to 230 newton metre torque from the 2.7 L (2693 cc) 6 cylinder petrol engine. The E30 BMW M3
was fitted with a high-revving 4-cylinder engine (BMW S14
) which produced 175 kW in its final European-only iteration.
Following on from the E21
, the E30 was fitted with M10
straight-4 and M20
straight-6
engines.
The 316 used a 1766 cc M10 fed by a carburetor
and producing only 66 kW, but this allowed BMW to offer a cheap, entry-level car in the range. The 318i had the same M10 engine, but with Jetronic
fuel injection
, pushing power to 77 kW and improving fuel economy
. Finally, the 320i (2.0 L
M20 with 92 kW) and 323i (2.3 L M20 with 105 kW) completed the range. Later, in 1985, a 2.5 L version of the M20 boosted the power of the top model to 125 kW, replacing the old 323i. The 325ix (All Wheel Drive model) had a 2.5 liter M20 with 125 kW (same as the 325i).
Europe and North America
received an economy version called the 325e (the e stands for the Greek
letter eta
, signifying efficiency). Strangely enough, the engine was the largest available in the chassis, aside from the rare South Africa
n version which was available with the 3.3 L M30
. The 2.7 L had a longer stroke than the 2.5 L, with a more restrictive head, four cam bearings instead of seven (less internal friction), and softer valve springs. This resulted in 90 kW.
In 1987, the E30 was revised. The revision contained two significant changes in the engine department. First, the M20 straight-6 engines changed from Bosch Jetronic to Bosch Motronic. This boosted the 320i to 95 kW and the 325i to 126 kW, all the while improving the economy. The M10 was replaced by the new, belt-driven cam M40
which also incorporated Motronic injection. The new 318i now had 85 kW and was noticeably smoother than the old version.
A new engine had been developed, a chain-driven cam 4 cylinder M42
1.8 L DOHC 16 V engine creating the 318is in 1989. This is the most modern engine built to the E30 (this engine has been later used in early 318i E36s).
The 316 was replaced by a 316i, which used a 1600 cc version of the M40, producing 75 kW. Not quite as torquey as the 66 kW 1766 cc M10 it replaced, it nevertheless offered superior performance.
In some markets, like South Africa, the old M10-powered 316 continued a lot longer, gaining the new bumpers of the other models. In South Africa, The 316i was released in 1991.
, and three automatics
.
A 4-speed manual was available for the 316 and 318i (Getrag 220). The 316, 318i, and 320i also had the option of a common 5-speed manual (Getrag 240), while the 323i and 325i had a different manual (Getrag 260), and in addition, the 323i had a sports manual as an option(??). The transmissions for the 316 and 318i featured synchromesh on forward gears only, while the 320i and 323i, both with standard and sports transmissions, had synchromesh on reverse as well.
Both automatic transmissions were manufactured by ZF
- they were the 3-speed 3 HP 22, which was available on the M10 316 and 318i models, and the 4-speed 4 HP 22
, which was available on the 320i, 323i, 324td, 325, 325i and 325e models, as well as M40 and M42 316i and 318i.
Transmission gear ratios:
There were many differentials
used on the E30 models. The 316 and 318i shared a differential, as did the 320i and 323i, with the standard transmission. 323i models with sports transmissions had a different differential. The 325i received its own ratio, as did the 325e. The various M3s had special ratios as well.
Differential Gear Ratios and Types:
The all-wheel drive system on the iX models used three differentials to distribute power to the wheels, 37:63 split front to rear. The center and rear differentials use viscous couplings to split torque. The front differential was open.
Global E30 production totals by year
Note: * The very first E30's were produced in December 1981, but it was only a few of the 323i's. Exactly how many is still unknown.
Global E30 production totals by model
The total production from 1982 to 1994 was 2,339,520 units.
265 gearbox of the non-US M3 while it had a limited slip differential
with the same 25% lock up rate but with a closer ratio. All the 320is were left hand drive and without catalytic converter; ABS and power steering were also fitted as standard equipment. The saloon version appeared in the dealers' showrooms on September 1987 while the 2-door version arrived on March 1988. The 4-door was equipped with 14" alloy wheels and foglights only, while the 2-door model was further equipped with the complete M-Technic II Aero package (identical to the one fitted to the UK-spec 325i Sport and available as an accessory on all other E30 3 Series models), which consisted of a deeper front airdam, additional lower side body panels, an extended valance under the rear bumper and a two-piece rear spoiler. In addition, the two-door E30 320is sported body-colour side mirror housings, shadowline (dechromed) window trim and 14-inch cross-spoke alloy wheels. The springs, shocks and anti-roll bars of all two-doors (as well as four-doors produced from September 1989) are of the more aggressive "Sportfahrwerk" specification. The interior of the 320is was identical to that of other 3 Series models with the sole exception of its unique instrument cluster that utilized the same M3 dashboard with integrated oil temperature gauge at the bottom of the rev counter instead of the econometer present on all other E30s. The car was sold for three years only and produced in 3748 examples (1206 saloon cars, 2542 2-door cars) and for this reason is now becoming a collectors' item.
BMW South Africa's Motorsport division created the 333i in 1986 by fitting the 3210 cc M30 "big six" ("M30B32" of the 733i E23/ 533i E12/ 533i E28/ 633CSi E24) engine to a 2-door E30. The resulting 333i was a major success in saloon car racing in that country and is now a collectors' item. These cars, built with help from Alpina in Buchloe, Bavaria, Germany, featured some interesting compromises like forcing the buyer to choose between air conditioning (vital in South Africa) or power steering (because of lack of space due to the large M30 engine). They were only built in small numbers in 1986. BMW South Africa provided the following specifications for the 333i: Powerplant - M30B32 6 Cylinder 3210 cc 145 kW at 5500 rpm. 285 newton metre torque at 4300 rpm. The cars were fitted with a 5 speed manual gearbox and limited slip differential. Braking was enhanced by 296 mm (11.7 in) Alpina dual ventilated grooved front disc brakes. ABS was optional. The cars were fitted with J7x16 Alpina wheels and Pirelli P7 (195x50VR16)tyres. BMW provided performance figures were impressive, with a top speed of 228 kilometre per hour. 0–100 km/h in 7.4 seconds, and a standing kilometer in 27.7 seconds at sea level. Actual South African Car Magazine road test figures were a top speed of 231 km/h, 0–100 km/h in 7.23 seconds and a standing kilometre in 28.08 seconds. The test was carried out with a driver, passenger and a full tank of fuel. Approximately 210 of these cars were produced.
Later when it became clear that South Africa would not be getting the M3, the 325iS was created. Initially this was merely a 325i 2-door fitted with a bodykit and a close-ratio gearbox (improving acceleration at the expense of top speed and economy), but more changes were made to keep the car competitive in South African saloon car racing. Nevertheless, these cars were always sold to the public. This resulted in the 325iS of late 1990. By now several body panels were made of aluminum and the M20 engine grew to 2.7 L and now produced 145 kW and a 0-62 mph in a mere 6.9 seconds as claimed by BMW South Africa. Due to increased competition in the production car race series it was competing in, another version was released in late 1991 called the 325iS Evo. The main revisions were a front aerofoil to smooth underbody airflow, shorter stiffer springs, thicker rear anti-roll bar and changes to the throttle body, exhaust manifold and inlet valves. It produced 155 kW and BMW South Africa claimed a top speed of 235 kilometre per hour with a 0–100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. It did win the 1993 Group N race series under Robbie Smith and set various track records in the process.
The cabriolet version continued to be built to the end of April 1993 and the touring version continued to be built to the end of February 1994.
in hard cornering situations (such as racing and autocross).
bargraph plus Inspection, ABS and Oil Service warning lights.
Compact executive car
Compact executive car is a car classification term applied to premium cars smaller than executive cars. In European classification, compact executive cars are part of the D-segment. In North American terms, close equivalents are compact premium car, compact luxury car, entry-level luxury car and...
produced by BMW. It was replaced by the BMW E36
BMW E36
The BMW E36 is the third generation of the 3 Series compact executive cars produced by BMW. It was introduced in late 1990 for Europe and in late 1991 for US and Canada. It was the successor to the E30 3 Series and was eventually replaced by the E90 3 Series in 2005, though E36 coupes were still...
in 1990. BMW
BMW
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG is a German automobile, motorcycle and engine manufacturing company founded in 1916. It also owns and produces the Mini marque, and is the parent company of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. BMW produces motorcycles under BMW Motorrad and Husqvarna brands...
continued to produce the cabriolet (convertible
Convertible
A convertible is a type of automobile in which the roof can retract and fold away having windows which wind-down inside the doors, converting it from an enclosed to an open-air vehicle...
) E30 well into 1993. The Touring remained in production until 1994 when the E36 touring replaced it. The M3 cabriolet was never officially offered for sale in North America
North America
North America is a continent wholly within the Northern Hemisphere and almost wholly within the Western Hemisphere. It is also considered a northern subcontinent of the Americas...
; it was offered only for the Europe
Europe
Europe is, by convention, one of the world's seven continents. Comprising the westernmost peninsula of Eurasia, Europe is generally 'divided' from Asia to its east by the watershed divides of the Ural and Caucasus Mountains, the Ural River, the Caspian and Black Seas, and the waterways connecting...
an market.
The BMW M3
BMW M3
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M. M3 models have been derived from the E30, E36, E46 and E90/E92/E93 3-series, and sold with coupé, sedan and convertible body styles...
was first introduced on the E30 platform. A widened version of the E30 front suspension and the drivetrain from the E30 325i were used in the BMW Z1
BMW Z1
The BMW Z1 was a two-seat roadster developed by BMW and produced from March 1989 to June 1991. The Z1 featured doors which dropped down into the door sills. A total of 8,000 cars were produced.-History:...
roadster
Roadster
A roadster is a two-seat open car with emphasis on sporty handling and without a fixed roof or side weather protection. Strictly speaking a roadster with wind-up windows is a convertible but as true roadsters are no longer made the distinction is now irrelevant...
.
The E30 3-Series was produced in four body styles, a four door saloon, a two door saloon, a five door estate
Station wagon
A station wagon is a body style variant of a sedan/saloon with its roof extended rearward over a shared passenger/cargo volume with access at the back via a third or fifth door , instead of a trunk lid...
(marketed as the "touring"),a three-door estate
Station wagon
A station wagon is a body style variant of a sedan/saloon with its roof extended rearward over a shared passenger/cargo volume with access at the back via a third or fifth door , instead of a trunk lid...
also called "Touring", and a two door convertible. A Baur
Karosserie Baur
Baur is a Karosserie or coachbuilder in Stuttgart, Germany, which has been building BMW convertibles since the 1930s. Currently, they are the body and assembly works for IVM Automotive, a member the Ed Group...
cabrio was also available. The 325ix was produced from 1988 to 1991, and featured all-wheel drive. It was available as a two-door (sedan
Sedan
A sedan or saloon car is a passenger car in a three-box configuration with A, B & C-pillars and principal volumes articulated in separate compartments for engine, passenger and cargo...
) or a four-door (sedan) and as touring. The BMW M3
BMW M3
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M. M3 models have been derived from the E30, E36, E46 and E90/E92/E93 3-series, and sold with coupé, sedan and convertible body styles...
utilised a widened and heavily redesigned and restyled variation of the 2 door body style. The M3 shares few parts with other E30 models, however many M3 parts can be used on the other body styles and are interchangeable offering the consumer an OEM "upgrade". These parts consist of control arms, control arm bushings, steering racks, etc.
The primary distinctive feature of the BMW E30 models produced for the North American market in 1984-1987 are the elongated front/rear aluminum bumpers. These bumpers are commonly known as "diving boards." In 1988, the anodized aluminum bumpers were shortened by revising the cover/fillers and shortening the shocks. In 1989 the aluminum bumpers were replaced with shorter body-color plastic bumpers.
The cars were powered by a range of inline 4 cylinder
Straight-4
The inline-four engine or straight-four engine is an internal combustion engine with all four cylinders mounted in a straight line, or plane along the crankcase. The single bank of cylinders may be oriented in either a vertical or an inclined plane with all the pistons driving a common crankshaft....
(BMW M10
BMW M10
The BMW M10/M12 was a straight-4 piston engine produced from 1961 to 1987. Displacement ranged from 1499 cc to 1990 cc.The engine was designed by noted engineer and race driver Baron Alex von Falkenhausen. He was asked to design a small-displacement engine, but felt that this would be...
, BMW M40
BMW M40
The BMW M40 is an I4 piston engine. Engine displacement ranges from 1600 cc to 1800 cc.-M40B16:The M40B16 is a 1.6 L version of the M40 producing 102 hp of mechanical power and lbf of torque using Bosch M1.3 fuel injection...
, & BMW M42
BMW M42
The BMW M42 is a DOHC 16-valve I4 piston engine first built for the E30 318is and 318i 1991 year model. The engine block is based on the BMW M40, used on the 318i, but had distinctive features such as double overhead cams driven by a timing chain, hydraulic valve lifters, and an increased 10:1...
) and inline 6 cylinder
Straight-6
The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
(BMW M20
BMW M20
The M20 is an inline-6 piston engine by BMW.Initially designated M60, the 12-valve, belt driven SOHC design was introduced in the 1977 BMW 520/6 and 320/6 as an entirely new design. With displacements ranging from 2.0 to 2.7 liters, it was the "little brother" to the larger BMW M30 engine. It had ...
and BMW M21
BMW M21
The BMW M21 was a 2.4 L diesel straight-6 engine.It was introduced in 1983 with the BMW M20 design as its basis. It was available with a turbocharger....
) engines, with both petrol and diesel power. Torque output for the engines ranges from 140 newton metre torque
Torque
Torque, moment or moment of force , is the tendency of a force to rotate an object about an axis, fulcrum, or pivot. Just as a force is a push or a pull, a torque can be thought of as a twist....
for the 1.8 L
Litér
- External links :*...
(1766 cc) 4 cylinder engine, to 230 newton metre torque from the 2.7 L (2693 cc) 6 cylinder petrol engine. The E30 BMW M3
BMW M3
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M. M3 models have been derived from the E30, E36, E46 and E90/E92/E93 3-series, and sold with coupé, sedan and convertible body styles...
was fitted with a high-revving 4-cylinder engine (BMW S14
BMW S14
The BMW S14 is a 2.3 L DOHC 16-valve I4 piston engine. It was used in the E30 M3. The S14 is essentially a BMW M10 basic engine block casting with modified oil drain back passages and a M88/S38 DOHC cylinder head . It has four separate throttle bodies...
) which produced 175 kW in its final European-only iteration.
Engines
BMW E21
BMW E21 is the body designation for the first BMW 3 Series compact executive car, produced by the German automaker BMW from 1975 to 1983. This series was the immediate successor to the BMW 2002 and was superseded by the BMW E30 platform....
, the E30 was fitted with M10
BMW M10
The BMW M10/M12 was a straight-4 piston engine produced from 1961 to 1987. Displacement ranged from 1499 cc to 1990 cc.The engine was designed by noted engineer and race driver Baron Alex von Falkenhausen. He was asked to design a small-displacement engine, but felt that this would be...
straight-4 and M20
BMW M20
The M20 is an inline-6 piston engine by BMW.Initially designated M60, the 12-valve, belt driven SOHC design was introduced in the 1977 BMW 520/6 and 320/6 as an entirely new design. With displacements ranging from 2.0 to 2.7 liters, it was the "little brother" to the larger BMW M30 engine. It had ...
straight-6
Straight-6
The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
engines.
The 316 used a 1766 cc M10 fed by a carburetor
Carburetor
A carburetor , carburettor, or carburetter is a device that blends air and fuel for an internal combustion engine. It is sometimes shortened to carb in North America and the United Kingdom....
and producing only 66 kW, but this allowed BMW to offer a cheap, entry-level car in the range. The 318i had the same M10 engine, but with Jetronic
Jetronic
Jetronic is a trade name of an fuel injection technology for automotive petrol engines, developed and marketed by Robert Bosch GmbH from the 1960s onwards. Bosch licensed the concept to many automobile manufacturers. There are several variations of the technology offering technological development...
fuel injection
Fuel injection
Fuel injection is a system for admitting fuel into an internal combustion engine. It has become the primary fuel delivery system used in automotive petrol engines, having almost completely replaced carburetors in the late 1980s....
, pushing power to 77 kW and improving fuel economy
Fuel economy in automobiles
Fuel usage in automobiles refers to the fuel efficiency relationship between distance traveled by an automobile and the amount of fuel consumed....
. Finally, the 320i (2.0 L
Litér
- External links :*...
M20 with 92 kW) and 323i (2.3 L M20 with 105 kW) completed the range. Later, in 1985, a 2.5 L version of the M20 boosted the power of the top model to 125 kW, replacing the old 323i. The 325ix (All Wheel Drive model) had a 2.5 liter M20 with 125 kW (same as the 325i).
Europe and North America
North America
North America is a continent wholly within the Northern Hemisphere and almost wholly within the Western Hemisphere. It is also considered a northern subcontinent of the Americas...
received an economy version called the 325e (the e stands for the Greek
Greek alphabet
The Greek alphabet is the script that has been used to write the Greek language since at least 730 BC . The alphabet in its classical and modern form consists of 24 letters ordered in sequence from alpha to omega...
letter eta
Eta (letter)
Eta ) is the seventh letter of the Greek alphabet. Originally denoting a consonant /h/, its sound value in the classical Attic dialect of Ancient Greek was a long vowel , raised to in medieval Greek, a process known as itacism.In the system of Greek numerals it has a value of 8...
, signifying efficiency). Strangely enough, the engine was the largest available in the chassis, aside from the rare South Africa
South Africa
The Republic of South Africa is a country in southern Africa. Located at the southern tip of Africa, it is divided into nine provinces, with of coastline on the Atlantic and Indian oceans...
n version which was available with the 3.3 L M30
BMW M30
The BMW M30 is an inline-6 cylinder engine built by BMW and was used in many different models since 1968. It was originally developed in the late 1960s as an extended 2.5-liter version of the robust inline four-cylinder BMW M10 first used in the 'Neue Klasse' BMW 1500, with which it shares a...
. The 2.7 L had a longer stroke than the 2.5 L, with a more restrictive head, four cam bearings instead of seven (less internal friction), and softer valve springs. This resulted in 90 kW.
In 1987, the E30 was revised. The revision contained two significant changes in the engine department. First, the M20 straight-6 engines changed from Bosch Jetronic to Bosch Motronic. This boosted the 320i to 95 kW and the 325i to 126 kW, all the while improving the economy. The M10 was replaced by the new, belt-driven cam M40
BMW M40
The BMW M40 is an I4 piston engine. Engine displacement ranges from 1600 cc to 1800 cc.-M40B16:The M40B16 is a 1.6 L version of the M40 producing 102 hp of mechanical power and lbf of torque using Bosch M1.3 fuel injection...
which also incorporated Motronic injection. The new 318i now had 85 kW and was noticeably smoother than the old version.
A new engine had been developed, a chain-driven cam 4 cylinder M42
BMW M42
The BMW M42 is a DOHC 16-valve I4 piston engine first built for the E30 318is and 318i 1991 year model. The engine block is based on the BMW M40, used on the 318i, but had distinctive features such as double overhead cams driven by a timing chain, hydraulic valve lifters, and an increased 10:1...
1.8 L DOHC 16 V engine creating the 318is in 1989. This is the most modern engine built to the E30 (this engine has been later used in early 318i E36s).
The 316 was replaced by a 316i, which used a 1600 cc version of the M40, producing 75 kW. Not quite as torquey as the 66 kW 1766 cc M10 it replaced, it nevertheless offered superior performance.
In some markets, like South Africa, the old M10-powered 316 continued a lot longer, gaining the new bumpers of the other models. In South Africa, The 316i was released in 1991.
Drivetrain
In total, seven transmissions were available for the various models of the E30: four manualsManual transmission
A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
, and three automatics
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
.
A 4-speed manual was available for the 316 and 318i (Getrag 220). The 316, 318i, and 320i also had the option of a common 5-speed manual (Getrag 240), while the 323i and 325i had a different manual (Getrag 260), and in addition, the 323i had a sports manual as an option(??). The transmissions for the 316 and 318i featured synchromesh on forward gears only, while the 320i and 323i, both with standard and sports transmissions, had synchromesh on reverse as well.
Both automatic transmissions were manufactured by ZF
ZF Friedrichshafen
ZF Friedrichshafen AG, also known as ZF Group, and commonly abbreviated to ZF, is a German public company headquartered in Friedrichshafen, in the south-west German region of Baden-Württemberg....
- they were the 3-speed 3 HP 22, which was available on the M10 316 and 318i models, and the 4-speed 4 HP 22
ZF 4HP22 transmission
The 4HP22 is a four-speed automatic transmission for passenger cars from ZF Friedrichshafen AG. Introduced in 1980, it was produced through 2003, and has been used in a variety of cars from BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Maserati, Peugeot, and Volvo.-4HP22:...
, which was available on the 320i, 323i, 324td, 325, 325i and 325e models, as well as M40 and M42 316i and 318i.
Transmission gear ratios:
| 4-speed manual | 5-speed manual | 3-speed automatic | 4-speed automatic | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| available on | 316, 318i | 316, 316i, 318i, 320i | 323i standard, 325i | 323i sports | 316, 318i | 320i, 323i | 325i |
| 1st | 3.76 | 3.72 | 3.83 | 3.76 | 2.48 | 2.73 | 2.48 |
| 2nd | 2.04 | 2.02 | 2.20 | 2.33 | 1.48 | 1.56 | 1.48 |
| 3rd | 1.32 | 1.32 | 1.40 | 1.61 | 1.00 | 1.00 | 1.00 |
| 4th | 1.00 | 1.00 | 1.00 | 1.23 | - | 0.73 | 0.73 |
| 5th | - | 0.81 | 0.81 | 1.00 | - | - | - |
| reverse | 4.10 | 3.45 | 3.46 | 4.10 | 2.09 | 2.09 | 2.09 |
There were many differentials
Differential (mechanics)
A differential is a device, usually, but not necessarily, employing gears, capable of transmitting torque and rotation through three shafts, almost always used in one of two ways: in one way, it receives one input and provides two outputs—this is found in most automobiles—and in the other way, it...
used on the E30 models. The 316 and 318i shared a differential, as did the 320i and 323i, with the standard transmission. 323i models with sports transmissions had a different differential. The 325i received its own ratio, as did the 325e. The various M3s had special ratios as well.
Differential Gear Ratios and Types:
| model(s) | ratio(s) | case size | type(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 316 before 9/84 | 3.64 | small | open |
| 316 after 9/84 | 3.91 | small | open |
| 316i M10 | 3.91, 4.10 | small | open |
| 316i M40 | 4.27, 4.45 | small | open |
| 318i M10 | 3.64, 3.91, 4.10 | small | open |
| 318i M40 2- and 4-doors | 4.10, 4.45 | small | open |
| 318i M40 convertible and touring | 4.27, 4.45 | small | open |
| 318is | 4.10 | small | open (USA Spec had an optional 4.10 small case LSD) |
| 320i before 9/85 | 3.46 | small | open |
| 320i 9/85 to 9/87 | 3.64, 3.91 | small | open |
| 320i after 9/87 | 4.10 | small | open |
| 320i convertible and touring | 4.27, 4.45 | small | open |
| 323i before 9/84 | 3.23 | medium | open |
| 323i after 9/84 | 3.46 | medium | open |
| 324d | 3.45 | small | open |
| 324td | 3.25 | medium | open |
| 325i before 9/86 | 3.46, 3.73, 3.91, 4.10 | medium | standard - open sports - mechanical limited-slip |
| 325i after 9/86 | 3.64, 3.73, 3.91, 4.10 | medium | standard - open sports - mechanical limited-slip |
| 325i convertible before 9/86 | 3.46, 3.91 | medium | standard - open sports - mechanical limited-slip |
| 325i convertible after 9/86 | 3.64, 3.91, 4.10 (USA SPEC) | medium | standard - open sports - mechanical limited-slip |
| 325i touring | 3.91 | medium | open |
| 325ix 2- and 4-doors | 3.64, 3.73, 3.91, 4.10(US SPEC AUTO) | medium | open, all viscous, 10-100% limited-slip |
| 325ix Touring | 3.91, 4.10 | medium | open, all viscous, 10-100% limited-slip |
| 325, 325e US-models | 2.93, 3.23 | medium | standard - open sports - mechanical limited-slip |
| 325e before 9/85 | 2.79 | medium | standard - open sports - mechanical limited-slip |
| 325e 9/85 to 12/86 | 2.93 | medium | standard - open sports - mechanical limited-slip |
| 325e after 12/86 | 3.25, 3.46 | medium | standard - open sports - mechanical limited-slip |
| M3 (North America) | 4.10 | medium | mechanical limited-slip |
| M3 (Europe), Evolution, Evolution II | 3.25 | medium | mechanical limited-slip |
| M3 Convertible | 3.25 | medium | mechanical limited-slip |
| M3 Sport Evolution | 3.15 | medium | mechanical limited-slip |
The all-wheel drive system on the iX models used three differentials to distribute power to the wheels, 37:63 split front to rear. The center and rear differentials use viscous couplings to split torque. The front differential was open.
Models and production volumes
Europe:316 75hp 1.6 engine m10b16
|
Other markets:
|
Global E30 production totals by year
| Year | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 | 1984 | 1985 | 1986 | 1987 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Production | * | 15,580 | 218,201 | 285,134 | 297,886 | 329,460 | 316,075 |
| Year | 1988 | 1989 | 1990 | 1991 | 1992 | 1993 | 1994 |
| Production | 269,074 | 257,307 | 246,818 | 56,363 | 26,913 | 18,440 | 1,997 |
Note: * The very first E30's were produced in December 1981, but it was only a few of the 323i's. Exactly how many is still unknown.
Global E30 production totals by model
| Model | Year | Units produced |
|---|---|---|
| 318i | 1987–1991 | 89,637 |
| 318is | 1989–1991 | 41,234 |
| 320is (2 door) | 1988–1990 | 2,542 |
| 320is (4 door) | 1987–1990 | 1,206 |
| 325i (2 door) | 1985–1991 | 113,906 |
| 325i (4 door) | 1985–1991 | 83,080 |
| 325ic | 1985–1993 | 85,246 |
| 325ix | 1985–1991 | 29,589 |
| 325e (2 door) | 1983–1988 | 114,498 |
| 325e (4 door) | 1983–1988 | 74,789 |
| M3 BMW M3 The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M. M3 models have been derived from the E30, E36, E46 and E90/E92/E93 3-series, and sold with coupé, sedan and convertible body styles... |
1986–1991 | 17,184 |
The total production from 1982 to 1994 was 2,339,520 units.
Special models
In addition to the famous M3 there were other special models of the E30. For Portugal and Italy only, due to their VAT penalizing cars with bigger engine, a special model was created: the 320is. This model was produced both in 2 and 4 door versions and was equipped with a detuned M3 motor. It was the same S14 engine but with a displacement of 2.0l and a power output of 192 hp (DIN). The 320is shared the same dogleg GetragGetrag
Getrag is a leading manufacturer of automobile manual transmissions. The company was founded on 1 May 1935, in Ludwigsburg, Germany, by Hermann Hagenmeyer; as the Getriebe und Zahnradfabrik Hermann Hagenmeyer GmbH & Cie KG...
265 gearbox of the non-US M3 while it had a limited slip differential
Limited slip differential
A limited slip differential is a type of differential gear arrangement that allows for some difference in angular velocity of the output shafts, but imposes a mechanical bound on the disparity...
with the same 25% lock up rate but with a closer ratio. All the 320is were left hand drive and without catalytic converter; ABS and power steering were also fitted as standard equipment. The saloon version appeared in the dealers' showrooms on September 1987 while the 2-door version arrived on March 1988. The 4-door was equipped with 14" alloy wheels and foglights only, while the 2-door model was further equipped with the complete M-Technic II Aero package (identical to the one fitted to the UK-spec 325i Sport and available as an accessory on all other E30 3 Series models), which consisted of a deeper front airdam, additional lower side body panels, an extended valance under the rear bumper and a two-piece rear spoiler. In addition, the two-door E30 320is sported body-colour side mirror housings, shadowline (dechromed) window trim and 14-inch cross-spoke alloy wheels. The springs, shocks and anti-roll bars of all two-doors (as well as four-doors produced from September 1989) are of the more aggressive "Sportfahrwerk" specification. The interior of the 320is was identical to that of other 3 Series models with the sole exception of its unique instrument cluster that utilized the same M3 dashboard with integrated oil temperature gauge at the bottom of the rev counter instead of the econometer present on all other E30s. The car was sold for three years only and produced in 3748 examples (1206 saloon cars, 2542 2-door cars) and for this reason is now becoming a collectors' item.
BMW South Africa's Motorsport division created the 333i in 1986 by fitting the 3210 cc M30 "big six" ("M30B32" of the 733i E23/ 533i E12/ 533i E28/ 633CSi E24) engine to a 2-door E30. The resulting 333i was a major success in saloon car racing in that country and is now a collectors' item. These cars, built with help from Alpina in Buchloe, Bavaria, Germany, featured some interesting compromises like forcing the buyer to choose between air conditioning (vital in South Africa) or power steering (because of lack of space due to the large M30 engine). They were only built in small numbers in 1986. BMW South Africa provided the following specifications for the 333i: Powerplant - M30B32 6 Cylinder 3210 cc 145 kW at 5500 rpm. 285 newton metre torque at 4300 rpm. The cars were fitted with a 5 speed manual gearbox and limited slip differential. Braking was enhanced by 296 mm (11.7 in) Alpina dual ventilated grooved front disc brakes. ABS was optional. The cars were fitted with J7x16 Alpina wheels and Pirelli P7 (195x50VR16)tyres. BMW provided performance figures were impressive, with a top speed of 228 kilometre per hour. 0–100 km/h in 7.4 seconds, and a standing kilometer in 27.7 seconds at sea level. Actual South African Car Magazine road test figures were a top speed of 231 km/h, 0–100 km/h in 7.23 seconds and a standing kilometre in 28.08 seconds. The test was carried out with a driver, passenger and a full tank of fuel. Approximately 210 of these cars were produced.
Later when it became clear that South Africa would not be getting the M3, the 325iS was created. Initially this was merely a 325i 2-door fitted with a bodykit and a close-ratio gearbox (improving acceleration at the expense of top speed and economy), but more changes were made to keep the car competitive in South African saloon car racing. Nevertheless, these cars were always sold to the public. This resulted in the 325iS of late 1990. By now several body panels were made of aluminum and the M20 engine grew to 2.7 L and now produced 145 kW and a 0-62 mph in a mere 6.9 seconds as claimed by BMW South Africa. Due to increased competition in the production car race series it was competing in, another version was released in late 1991 called the 325iS Evo. The main revisions were a front aerofoil to smooth underbody airflow, shorter stiffer springs, thicker rear anti-roll bar and changes to the throttle body, exhaust manifold and inlet valves. It produced 155 kW and BMW South Africa claimed a top speed of 235 kilometre per hour with a 0–100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. It did win the 1993 Group N race series under Robbie Smith and set various track records in the process.
The cabriolet version continued to be built to the end of April 1993 and the touring version continued to be built to the end of February 1994.
Suspension
One of the features that added to the roominess of the E30 was the suspension. The front MacPherson struts and rear semi-trailing arm suspension were a compact arrangement that left a lot of cabin and trunk space for the car's overall size. The semi-trailing arms have been criticized for the dynamic toe & camber changes inherent to the suspension geometry, causing bump steerBump Steer
Bump steer is the term for the tendency of a wheel to steer as it moves upwards into jounce. It is typically measured in degrees per metre or degrees per foot....
in hard cornering situations (such as racing and autocross).
Service indicator
The E30 was the first 3-Series car to be fitted with an onboard service indicator, consisting of an LEDLEd
LEd is a TeX/LaTeX editing software working under Microsoft Windows. It is a freeware product....
bargraph plus Inspection, ABS and Oil Service warning lights.