The BMW 3 Series Sedan (E30) 320i Automatic, produced between 1982 and 1985, represented a key entry point into the acclaimed E30 generation. Positioned as a more accessible variant within the 3 Series lineup, it offered a blend of BMW’s renowned driving dynamics with the convenience of an automatic transmission. This model served as a popular choice for buyers seeking a premium compact sedan without the higher price tag of the 323i or the later 325i models. The E30 platform, internally designated as the E30, was a pivotal design for BMW, establishing many of the characteristics that would define the 3 Series for decades to come.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Sedan (E30) |
| Type (Engine) | 320i (125 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1982 |
| End of production | 1985 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h (118.68 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 4000 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M20B20 |
| Engine displacement | 1990 cm3 (121.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 66 mm (2.6 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| 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 (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1120 kg (2469.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1580 kg (3483.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 404 l (14.27 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4325 mm (170.28 in.) |
| Width | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Height | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1407 mm (55.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Front overhang | 761 mm (29.96 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 994 mm (39.13 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 125 mm (4.92 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/60 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 320i Automatic was the M20B20 engine, a 2.0-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine, a hallmark of BMW engineering at the time, featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. The M20 engine family was known for its smoothness and durability. The 9.8:1 compression ratio contributed to a respectable power output of 125 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 170 Nm (125.39 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, designed to provide comfortable and convenient shifting. While not known for its sporting character compared to the manual transmission options, it offered a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The 320i Automatic offered a noticeably different driving experience compared to its manual counterparts or the higher-powered 323i and 325i models. The automatic transmission, while smooth, resulted in a slight performance deficit. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 11.4 seconds, and top speed was around 118.68 mph. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising rather than outright acceleration. The automatic transmission did sap some of the engine’s power, making the car feel less responsive than the manual versions. However, the 320i Automatic still retained the E30’s balanced chassis and responsive steering, providing a reasonably engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 320i Automatic typically came with a fairly standard level of equipment for the early 1980s. Standard features included cloth upholstery, a basic stereo system, and power steering. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded stereo systems, air conditioning, and leather upholstery. The interior design was functional and well-built, reflecting BMW’s commitment to quality. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with clearly marked gauges and controls. Trim levels were relatively limited, with most variations coming from the addition of optional packages.
Chassis & Braking
The E30 320i Automatic utilized an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a trailing arm rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were discs, while the rear brakes were drums – a cost-saving measure for the entry-level model. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. The car’s relatively light weight (approximately 2469 lbs) helped to mitigate the performance limitations of the automatic transmission and the 125 hp engine.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 320i Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and comfortable entry-level luxury sedan. It was praised for its build quality, handling, and fuel efficiency. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for detracting from the car’s overall driving enjoyment. Compared to the manual 320i, the automatic version offered less driver involvement. Compared to the 323i and 325i, the 320i Automatic was less powerful and offered a less sporty driving experience, but it was also more affordable and fuel-efficient. The 320i Automatic appealed to buyers who prioritized comfort and convenience over outright performance.
Legacy
The E30 320i Automatic, while not the most sought-after variant of the E30 generation, remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors. The M20 engine is known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. However, like all classic BMWs, these cars require regular maintenance to keep them in good running order. Rust can be a significant issue, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Today, well-maintained examples of the 320i Automatic can command respectable prices in the used car market, appealing to those seeking a classic BMW experience without the higher cost of the more powerful models. The E30 platform as a whole is celebrated for its impact on the sports sedan segment, and the 320i Automatic played a role in making BMW accessible to a wider audience.
