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BMW 3 Series Sedan (E30, facelift 1987) 316i (102 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)
Sedan (E30, facelift 1987) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Sedan (E30, facelift 1987)). With 140 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1085 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 12.1 s). The top speed reaches 182 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
316i (102 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Adequate performance for an entry-level model, with the manual gearbox offering more engagement and control than the automatic.
Fuel Economy
Good fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for daily driving and urban environments.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Timeless, iconic styling and classic BMW proportions.
- • Engaging rear-wheel-drive (or AWD) driving dynamics.
- • Robust mechanicals and strong aftermarket support.
- • Increasing classic car value and enthusiast appeal.
- • Wide range of engine options to suit different needs.
Cons:
- • Lacks modern safety features and driver aids.
- • Older technology, including basic infotainment and climate control.
- • Prone to rust in common areas if not well-maintained.
- • Fuel economy can be poor on larger petrol engines.
- • Parts can be expensive, especially for specific trim levels.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Sedan (E30): 1986 - 1987).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Sedan (E30, facelift 1987) |
| Modification (Engine): | 316i (102 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1987 |
| End of production: | 1988 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 102 Hp @ 5800 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 63.9 Hp/l [4mm less] |
| Torque: | 140 Nm @ 4500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M10B18 More details about the engine M10B18 |
| Engine displacement: | 1596 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4 l |
| Coolant: | 6 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 8.6 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 182 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.8 kg/Nm, 129 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 11.5 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1085 |
| Max. weight: | 1545 |
| Max load: | 460 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 425 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 55 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4321 mm mm [4mm less] |
| Width: | 1641 mm mm [4mm less] |
| Height: | 1379 mm mm [1mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2570 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1410 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1420 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 125 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 | Disc [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the BMW 3 Series!