Click on image to view the full photo gallery
BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30, facelift 1987) 320i (129 Hp)
Overall Rating
BMW 3 Series:
The BMW 3 series is a line of compact executive cars manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. It is the successor to the 02 series and has been produced in seven generations.
The first generation of the 3 Series was only available as a 2-door saloon; the model range expanded to include a 4-door saloon, 2-door convertible, 2-door coupé, 5-door estate, 5-door liftback and 3-door hatchback body styles. Since 2013, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed as the 4 Series; these styles no longer being included in the 3 Series....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Convertible (E30, facelift 1987) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Convertible (E30, facelift 1987)). With 164 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1280 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 11.5 s). The top speed reaches 195 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.
320i (129 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A well-balanced engine, offering a noticeable step up in performance from the 318i, providing a more dynamic and enjoyable driving experience with the manual transmission.
Fuel Economy
Good compromise between power and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for varied driving conditions.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Timeless, iconic design and classic BMW aesthetics.
- • Engaging rear-wheel-drive handling and driving dynamics.
- • Robust engine options, especially the smooth M20 straight-six.
- • Increasing classic car value and strong enthusiast community.
- • Open-top driving experience.
Cons:
- • Lack of modern safety features and driver aids.
- • Age-related maintenance and potential rust issues.
- • Fuel economy is not competitive by modern standards.
- • Rear seat space is limited.
- • Soft-top maintenance and security concerns.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Sedan (E30): 1986 - 1987).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Convertible (E30, facelift 1987) |
| Modification (Engine): | 320i (129 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1987 |
| End of production: | 1994 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 4 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 129 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 64.8 Hp/l [125mm more] |
| Torque: | 164 Nm @ 4300 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M20B20 More details about the engine M20B20 |
| Engine displacement: | 1991 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.25 l |
| Coolant: | 10.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 80 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 66 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 8.8:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9.5 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 195 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 9.9 kg/Hp, 100.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.8 kg/Nm, 128.1 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 10.9 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1280 |
| Max. weight: | 1680 |
| Max load: | 400 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 312 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 1200 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 62 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 500 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4450 mm mm [125mm more] |
| Width: | 1645 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1370 mm mm [10mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2570 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1405 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1415 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Your first impression of the BMW 3 Series in one word? Go!