1987 BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30, facelift 1987) Dimensions, Size & Specs

Production
Model Year:1987
Production Years:1987 - 1994 discontinued in 1994
1370 mm53.9 in4.5 ft
1645 mm64.8 in5.4 ft
Length
4325 - 4450 mm170.3 - 175.2 in14.2 - 14.6 ft
Width
1645 mm64.8 in5.4 ft
Height
1370 mm53.9 in4.5 ft
Trunk Capacity
312 liter11.0 cu ft
Technical Details

Exterior Dimensions

Precise measurements of the 1987 BMW 3 Series Convertible, engineered for optimal performance and comfort

Dimensions
Length:4325 - 4450 mm170.3 - 175.2 in14.2 - 14.6 ft
Width:1645 mm64.8 in5.4 ft
Height:1370 mm53.9 in4.5 ft
Trunk Capacity:312 liter11.0 cu ft
Weight Specifications
Curb Weight:1220 - 1355 kg2690 - 2987 lbs
Maximal permitted Weight:1620 - 1735 kg3571 - 3825 lbs
Tire Specifications
Rims Sizes:14, 15
Tire Sizes:195/65 R14 (W:195 | H:65 | D:14)
195/65 VR14 (W:195 | H:65 | D:14)
195/65 HR14 (W:195 | H:65 | D:14)
195/65 R15 (W:195 | H:65 | D:15)
195/65 VR15 (W:195 | H:65 | D:15)
Useful Information

About 1987 BMW 3 Series Convertible

The BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30 facelift 1987) represents a classic era of sporty Cabriolets produced between 1987 and 1994. This generation is a facelifted version of the acclaimed E30 platform, blending timeless design with the open-air driving experience. The E30 convertible measures between 4325 mm and 4450 mm in length (170.3 - 175.2 inches), with a consistent width of 1645 mm (64.8 inches), and a height of 1370 mm (53.9 inches). It strikes a balanced stance with its compact and agile dimensions, offering a responsive driving feel typical of BMW engineering. The vehicle's curb weight ranges from 1220 kg to 1355 kg (2690 - 2987 lbs), depending on specific configurations and equipment, with the maximum permissible weight varying between 1620 kg to 1735 kg (3571 - 3825 lbs). This ensures a solid yet nimble driving composition. The convertible carries a practical luggage capacity of 312 liters (11 cubic feet), adequate for weekend trips despite its sporty nature. OEM rim sizes for the E30 Cabriolet include 14 and 15 inches, paired with tire options such as 195/65 R14, 195/65 VR14, 195/65 HR14, 195/65 R15, and 195/65 VR15, offering a range of performance and comfort setups. Overall, the BMW E30 Cabriolet facelift remains a sought-after model for enthusiasts who appreciate the blend of vintage style, open-air freedom, and precise driving dynamics inherent to the 3 Series lineage.

Exceptional Features

1987 BMW 3 Series Convertible Highlights

Discover the standout features that make the 1987 BMW 3 Series Convertible a leader in its class

Classic E30 Design

The 1987 BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30 facelift) features a timeless and iconic design with clean lines, distinctive kidney grilles, and round headlights, representing the mid-80s BMW styling.

Convertible Soft Top

Equipped with a manually operated soft top convertible roof, the E30 convertible offers open-air driving experience combined with coupe-like handling.

Engine Options

The E30 convertible comes with a range of engine options including 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder variants, providing a balance between performance and fuel economy, with popular choices being the 1.8L and 2.5L inline-6 engines.

Rear-Wheel Drive Platform

The 1987 E30 convertible maintains the classic BMW rear-wheel-drive layout, offering a dynamic driving experience characterized by balanced weight distribution and responsive handling.

Upgraded Facelift Features

The 1987 facelift introduced updated bumpers, front and rear lights, and interior refinements that enhanced the car's aesthetics and comfort compared to earlier E30 models.
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

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The BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30 facelift 1987) has a length ranging from 4325 mm to 4450 mm (approximately 170.3 inches to 175.2 inches). Its width is consistent at 1645 mm (64.8 inches). These dimensions give it a compact and sporty profile typical of a classic convertible, balancing style and practicality.

The height of the BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30 facelift 1987) is 1370 mm (53.9 inches). This relatively low height enhances its sporty look and reduces aerodynamic drag, typical for convertibles of this era. Compared to other convertibles from the late 1980s, it maintains a balanced stance that complements its dynamic driving character.

The curb weight of the BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30 facelift 1987) ranges from 1220 kg to 1355 kg (approximately 2689 to 2987 lbs). This moderate weight for a convertible ensures nimble handling and responsive acceleration, while still providing enough substance for a stable and comfortable ride.

The maximum weight, also known as the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), for the BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30 facelift 1987) ranges between 1620 kg and 1735 kg (approximately 3571 to 3824 lbs). This figure represents the total allowed weight including passengers, cargo, and the vehicle itself, ensuring safe operation within designated limits.

The BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30 facelift 1987) offers a luggage capacity of 312 liters (about 11 cubic feet). This is a reasonable amount of space for a convertible, allowing for everyday items and moderate packing needs. However, due to its coupe-cabriolet design, the folding roof mechanism slightly reduces storage compared to the hardtop versions.

This model supports rim sizes of 14 and 15 inches and tire sizes typically include 195/65 R14, 195/65 VR14, 195/65 HR14, 195/65 R15, and 195/65 VR15. These tire dimensions suit the vehicle's performance and comfort profile, balancing grip and ride quality suitable for sporty and everyday driving.

Generally, the BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30 facelift 1987) fits comfortably inside a standard residential garage. A typical garage door height ranges from about 2.1 to 2.4 meters (83 to 94 inches), and the car's height is just 1.37 meters (53.9 inches), leaving ample clearance. Its length and width also fall well within average garage dimensions, making parking and storage convenient.

The 1987 facelift of the BMW E30 Convertible saw only minor dimensional changes compared to the pre-1987 models. Length slightly increased to a maximum of 4450 mm (175.2 inches), mainly due to design tweaks and updated bumpers. Width (1645 mm / 64.8 inches) and height (1370 mm / 53.9 inches) remained essentially unchanged. Overall, the facelift preserved the original compact and sporty dimensions while modernizing styling and features.

Compared to other convertibles of the late 1980s, the BMW 3 Series Convertible (E30 facelift 1987) held up very well in size and practicality. Its length (up to 4450 mm / 175.2 inches) made it somewhat compact compared to larger roadsters like the Mercedes SL but larger than small convertibles like the Mazda Miata. The luggage capacity of 312 liters (11 cubic feet) was competitive, and BMW's engineering meant solid build quality and dynamic handling, setting it apart in terms of driving experience.

The 1987 facelift for the BMW E30 Convertible introduced subtle but meaningful changes to exterior dimensions. The length increased modestly to a max of 4450 mm (175.2 inches) due to redesigned bumpers and updated trim. Width and height remained consistent at 1645 mm (64.8 inches) and 1370 mm (53.9 inches), respectively. These tweaks contributed to a refreshed, slightly more modern appearance without altering the iconic proportions of the E30 convertible.

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