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BMW 3 Series Coupe (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)
Coupe (E30, facelift 1987) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Coupe (E30, facelift 1987)). With 164 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1125 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 10.6 s). The top speed reaches 197 km/h. 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.
320i (129 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The 320i's 129 Hp M20 engine provides a smooth, refined six-cylinder experience, offering a good blend of performance and classic BMW character, though not as punchy as the 325i.
Fuel Economy
Fuel consumption for the 320i is reasonable for a six-cylinder engine of its age, balancing the desire for a smooth engine with acceptable running costs for a classic BMW.
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(Sedan (E30): 1986 - 1987).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Coupe (E30, facelift 1987) |
| Modification (Engine): | 320i (129 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1987 |
| End of production: | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 129 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 64.8 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 164 Nm @ 4300 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M20B20 More details about the engine M20B20 |
| Engine displacement: | 1990 |
| 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: | 12.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9.7 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 197 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 8.7 kg/Hp, 114.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145.8 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 10.1 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1125 |
| Max. weight: | 1585 |
| Max. roof load: | 75 kg |
| Max load: | 460 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 425 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 1200 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 62 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 500 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4325 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1645 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1380 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 2570 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1407 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1415 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 10.5 m [above average] |
| 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 | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the BMW 3 Series!