1988 BMW 320i E30 'Manual' Coupe

Description

BMW’s E30 was the second generation of its legendary 3 Series, its most successful and populous model even today. Externally, the E30's appearance was similar to the twin headlight versions of its E21 predecessor, however there were various detail changes that gave it a fresh look. Inside, the interior was also modernised and, as way the way of BMWs of the era, very driver focussed. The new E30 model range included the usual coupe and convertibles variants and, for the first time, a four-door sedan and Touring (wagon) as well. Initially, the E30 used carryover four-cylinder (M10) and six-cylinder (M20) petrol engines from E21, with a six-cylinder diesel engine now available in some markets for the first time. Along the way new families of four-cylinder petrol engines were introduced and the six-cylinder engine received various upgrades. Suspension was re-tuned to reduce the oversteer for which the E21 was criticised but remained BMW’s signature front MacPherson struts and rear semi-trailing arm across the life of the model. The 320i model was produced from 1982 to 1992, powered by the M20 six-cylinder engine, which was good for 92kW and 170Nm, driving through a five-speed Getrag gearbox (a four-speed auto was optional). Brakes were discs all round, with ABS from 1986. The E30 model was produced from 1982-1994 and more than 2.4 million were made.