This one is directed primarily at the forum members in Europe. I'm considering the purchase of a 1997 or 1998 BMW E36 M3 sedan as my daily driver. The M3 is a great car, handles exceptionally well, isn't grossly overweight, is reliable and has a bulletproof drivetrain, and the sedan appeals to me because I am constantly chaufering my three kids around town.
Unfortunately, the North American E36 M3 is a little underpowered, IMHO, because us Yanks got the 240-hp engine, while European E36 M3 owners got the 320-hp Euro 3.2 liter evo motor (S50B32). I'm not sure about other parts of the world (e.g., Asia, Australia). Anyway, I've looked into swapping in the Euro engine and it is certainly feasible, but the cost is outrageous; it could exceed half the value of the car even after the existing engine and transmission are sold. The US shops who offer this swap claim an established network of European dealers who supply them with used 3.2 liter engines in good condition.
Is there anyone on this forum who may have a good source for this engine (and the 6-speed) who might be willing to help out a fellow GT40 enthusiast? I'm not in a hurry to do this (won't be into an M3 for a month or two anyway) and can bide my time until a good deal comes along.
Thanks in advance for any help or advice you may be able to offer.
[ March 07, 2003: Message edited by: Mark Worthington ]
Unfortunately, the North American E36 M3 is a little underpowered, IMHO, because us Yanks got the 240-hp engine, while European E36 M3 owners got the 320-hp Euro 3.2 liter evo motor (S50B32). I'm not sure about other parts of the world (e.g., Asia, Australia). Anyway, I've looked into swapping in the Euro engine and it is certainly feasible, but the cost is outrageous; it could exceed half the value of the car even after the existing engine and transmission are sold. The US shops who offer this swap claim an established network of European dealers who supply them with used 3.2 liter engines in good condition.
Is there anyone on this forum who may have a good source for this engine (and the 6-speed) who might be willing to help out a fellow GT40 enthusiast? I'm not in a hurry to do this (won't be into an M3 for a month or two anyway) and can bide my time until a good deal comes along.
Thanks in advance for any help or advice you may be able to offer.
[ March 07, 2003: Message edited by: Mark Worthington ]