BMW 3 Series Coupe (E30, facelift 1987) 316i (99 Hp) Automatic

Overall Rating

8.2 / 10

Safety N/A / 5

Not Rated

Engine 4.5 / 5

Value 4.5 / 5

Performance 4.0 / 5

Comfort 3.0 / 5

People\'s Opinion N/A / 5

Not Rated

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)

Coupe (E30, facelift 1987) Overview:

BMW 3 Series (Coupe (E30, facelift 1987)). With 141 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

316i (99 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Performance Verdict

The 99 Hp 316i, particularly with an automatic transmission, offers very modest performance, suitable only for relaxed city driving with limited overtaking capability on highways.

Fuel Economy

Despite its lower power, the older automatic transmission can negate some fuel efficiency benefits, making it less economical than expected for its output, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Best Use Case: City Commuting / Leisurely Driving

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Exceptional driving dynamics and handling
• Timeless, iconic design with strong enthusiast appeal
• Robust and relatively simple mechanicals (if well-maintained)
• Strong aftermarket support and a vibrant community
• Engaging manual transmission options enhance driver involvement
• Good weight distribution contributes to balanced handling

Cons:

• Lack of modern safety features and driver aids
• Age-related maintenance can be costly (e.g., rust, rubber components, electrical issues)
• Fuel economy can be poor on larger engines, especially in urban settings
• Interior plastics can become brittle and crack over time
• Limited rear passenger space in the coupe body style

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Convertible (E30, facelift 1987): 1987 - 1992).

General:
Brand:	BMW
Model:	3 Series
Generation:	Coupe (E30, facelift 1987)
Modification (Engine):	316i (99 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:	1988
End of production:	1991
Powertrain Architecture:	Internal Combustion engine
Body type:	Coupe
Seats:	5
Doors:	4

Engine:
Power:	99 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:	62 Hp/l [129mm less]
Torque:	141 Nm @ 4250 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:	M40B16 More details about the engine M40B16
Engine displacement:	1596
Number of cylinders:	4
Engine configuration:	Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:	2
Fuel injection system:	Carburettor
Engine aspiration:	Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:	4 l
Coolant:	6 l
Engine layout:	Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:	84 mm mm
Piston Stroke:	72 mm mm
Compression ratio:	9.7:1

Performance:
Fuel Type:	Petrol (Gasoline)

Space:
Max. weight:	1655
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:	425 l
Fuel tank capacity:	55 l

Size:
Length:	4321 mm mm [129mm less]
Width:	1641 mm mm [4mm less]
Height:	1379 mm mm [9mm more]
Wheelbase:	2570 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:	1410 mm
Rear (Back) track:	1420 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):	140 mm

Powertrain:
Drivetrain Architecture	The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheel	Rear wheel drive
Number of gears	4
Transmission type	Automatic
Front brakes	Disc [bad for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakes	Drum [bad for performance and cooling.]