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


Overall Rating

7.9 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 4.2 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 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)

Sedan (E30, facelift 1987) Overview:

BMW 3 Series (Sedan (E30, facelift 1987)). With 141 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1195 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

316i (99 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 2 stars

Performance Verdict

Entry-level performance, likely adequate for basic transportation but not engaging for enthusiasts. Best for relaxed driving.

Fuel Economy

Expected to be economical, similar to other 316i manual variants, making it a budget-friendly option.

Best Use Case: Budget-conscious daily driving, urban commuting, short trips.

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(Convertible (E30, facelift 1987): 1987 - 1992).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:3 Series
Generation:Sedan (E30, facelift 1987)
Modification (Engine):316i (99 Hp)
Start of production:1988
End of production:1991
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
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)
Weight-to-power ratio:12.1 kg/Hp, 82.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:8.5 kg/Nm, 118 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1195
Max. weight:1655
Max load:460
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 ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesDisc [bad for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]

Is it love at first sight with the BMW 3 Series? Tell us your story!