Click on image to view the full photo gallery
BMW 3 Series Sedan (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)
Sedan (E30, facelift 1987) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Sedan (E30, facelift 1987)). With 164 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1160 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 four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
320i (129 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The smooth M20 six-cylinder engine provides a good blend of power and refinement, enhanced by the manual transmission for a more engaging drive.
Fuel Economy
Moderate fuel consumption, typical for a 2.0L six-cylinder manual of this era, not the most economical but acceptable.
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): | 320i (129 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1987 |
| End of production: | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| 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: | 1991 |
| 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 |
| 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: | 13 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9.5 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: | 9 kg/Hp, 111.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.1 kg/Nm, 141.4 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 10.1 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1160 |
| Max. weight: | 1620 |
| Max load: | 460 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 425 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 55 l |
| 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: | 1405 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1415 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.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Would you recommend the BMW 3 Series ? Tell us why or why not!