320i - Which oil grade??

[Retrespect]

What oil are people putting in their 320i e30? I've got some 5/30 in the shed and was wondering whether it would be suitable or not, or whether I should go for a different grade?
I've had a look at the stickys on oil, but they didn't answer my question. Maybe I didn't look hard enough?!

[shedrool83]

10/40

[stonesie]

As above, i use that Vauxhall branded 10/40 semi synthetic mainly because i get it for £12 for 5 litres but have never had a problem using it.

[Retrespect]

Would 5/30 be ok in mine? Can't be bothered spending any money if I don't need to

[Black_Potato]

Its not ideal, its not the recommended grade. But will it explode day 1 - NO, could it cause premature wear in the medium to long term especially if driven hard - YES.

[djk]

Semi synth 10w40 is the recommendation in the oil stickies. That's what I use!

[Brianmoooore]

5/30's a bit thin, but it won't do any harm. I've used it in E30's before with no ill effects.

[Retrespect]

djk I love your garage of cars !! Can't beat the twin headlights ! BMW get it sorted and put them back into the design !

[chris318i]

GSF have a Fuchs brand semi syth 10/40 for less than £15 for 5 litres, thats what i've stuck in mine

[BadMoonRising]

I used 10/50 which is for high mileage cars in my 320i. Is that ok?

[Brianmoooore]

I used 10/50 which is for high mileage cars in my 320i. Is that ok?

There's no such thing as a 'high mileage' BMW!!!!
!0/50 will be costing you a little in MPG. 10/40 is better.

[BadMoonRising]

Cheers Brian

Won't do any damage if I use the bottle up tho?

[Black_Potato]

No harm at all..

At startup the oil will be the same viscosity at the 10w40 or as near as makes no difference, its just slightly more viscous at higher temps.. hence the higher 2nd number.

That extra viscosity means a little more drag which means the engine uses marginaly more power pushing the oil around. So.. very slightly less BHP and very slightly worse fuel consumption as a result.