BMW E30 Review

The BMW E30 was a compact executive car produced by BMW. 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.

The 318i had the same M10 engine, but with Jetronic fuel injection, pushing power to 77 kW (105 PS; 103 hp) and improving fuel economy. Finally, the 320i (2.0 L M20 with 92 kW (125 PS; 123 hp)) and 323i (2.3 L M20 with 105 kW (143 PS; 141 hp)) completed the range. Later, in 1985, a 2.5 L version of the M20 boosted the power of the top model to 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp), replacing the old 323i. This resulted in 90 kW (122 PS; 121 hp).

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 (129 PS; 127 hp) and the 325i to 126 kW (171 PS; 169 hp), all the while improving the economy. 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. The 316 was replaced by a 316i, which used a 1600 cc version of the M40, producing 75 kW (102 PS; 101 hp). A 4-speed manual was available for the 316 and 318i (Getrag 220). This model was produced both in 2 and 4 door versions had a detuned version of the M3 engine. It was the same S14 engine but with 2.0l and 143 kW (192 hp).

BMW South Africa provided the following specifications for the 333i: Powerplant - M30B32 6 Cylinder 3210 cc 145 kW (197 PS; 194 hp) at 5500 rpm. The cars were fitted with a 5 speed manual gearbox and limited slip differential. The cars were fitted with J7x16 Alpina wheels and Pirelli P7 (195x50VR16)tyres.