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E30 320 i bmw 1987 4 door with m teck 2 kit
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The BMW E30 320i: A Timeless Classic
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Historical Context of the BMW E30
3. The BMW 320i: Position in the E30 Lineup
4. Engine and Performance
5. Design and Styling
6. Interior and Features
7. Driving Dynamics
8. The 320i in Motorsport
9. Modifications and Tuning Culture
10. Common Issues and Maintenance
11. Market Value and Collectibility
12. E30 320i vs. Other E30 Variants
13. Enthusiast Community and Legacy
14. Conclusion
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1. Introduction
The BMW E30 320i holds a special place in automotive history. As part of the revered E30 generation, the 320i blends performance, style, and engineering excellence that has stood the test of time. Produced between 1982 and 1994, the 320i model was designed to offer a balanced experience — delivering a six-cylinder engine in a compact executive car chassis that became a favorite among driving purists. This article explores the E30 320i in detail, from its engineering brilliance to its enduring legacy.
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2. Historical Context of the BMW E30
The E30 generation of the BMW 3 Series was introduced in 1982 as a replacement for the E21. It was a time of transformation for BMW. The company was expanding its model range and seeking to solidify its position as the manufacturer of the ultimate driving machine.
BMW aimed to improve upon the E21 in terms of handling, comfort, and performance. The E30 delivered on all fronts. It featured better suspension geometry, more refined engines, and more comprehensive equipment. The 3 Series became BMW’s best-seller, and the E30 went on to become one of the most beloved models in the brand’s storied history.
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3. The BMW 320i: Position in the E30 Lineup
Within the E30 family, the 320i was positioned as a mid-tier offering — more powerful than the four-cylinder 316 and 318i, but below the 323i and 325i in terms of outright performance. It was available in multiple body styles:
• 2-door Coupe (E30/ 2)
• 4-door Sedan (E30/ 4)
• Convertible (E30/ 2C)
• Touring/ Wagon (E30/ 3T) – from 1988 onward
The 320i was intended to provide a refined driving experience with the smoothness of an inline-six engine, while maintaining reasonable fuel consumption and pricing.
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4. Engine and Performance
The BMW E30 320i was powered by the M20B20 engine, a 2. 0-liter inline-six that provided a harmonious balance of performance and efficiency.
Engine Specs (M20B20):
• Displacement: 1990cc
• Configuration: Inline-six, SOHC
• Valvetrain: 2 valves per cylinder
• Power Output: ~125–129 hp @ 6, 000 rpm
• Torque: ~164 Nm @ 4, 300 rpm
• Fuel Injection: Bosch L-Jetronic (early models), Bosch Motronic (later models)
• Compression Ratio: 9. 8:1 (varies by year)
Performance Figures:
• 0–100 km/ h (62 mph): ~10. 5 seconds
• Top Speed: ~195 km/ h (121 mph)
• Fuel Economy: ~8. 5–10. 0 L/ 100km (27–33 mpg)
Though not a powerhouse, the 320i was respected for its rev-happy engine and silky-smooth delivery. The hallmark of the 320i experience was its driving feel — not straight-line speed.
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5. Design and Styling
The E30 was a product of the 1980s, yet its clean and purposeful lines have aged remarkably well.
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