What's a Euro S38B36 worth these days

njansenv · 03-27-2011, 05:36 PM

Good evening, all of you. What's the going rate of a euro (E34) S38B36 these days, with ECU, harness and headers? Assuming good compression and leakdown, of course.

I'm trying to decide what to do with my euro M5, and simply have too many projects on the go.... not sure if I should be restoring it, parting it out (which would be a shame), or selling it as a WIP. Between work OT and the little guy, I'm just not getting around to it like I had hoped.

Thanks!
Nathan

///Maluco · 03-27-2011, 11:34 PM

The S38B36 came in all US-Spec and early Euro E34 M5's before BMW unleashed the big daddy S38B38 version for Euro cars only.

Depending on maintenance records, condition, compression, mileage, accessories incl., etc... I've seen them go between the range of $3,500-5,000.

That motor is a great engine swap for the E30 crowd but you have to find the right buyer as always. It'll take some time and dedication to fit it properly and upgrade the right items for a solid driver/track warrior.
This motor would also be great for the understated E34 525 wagon owner that's looking for some extra kick to the grocery store. It'll make a sweet sleeper.

good luck!

njansenv · 03-28-2011, 08:57 AM

Thanks! I wasn't sure if or how different the Euro version was: some say different compression, others say no differences...

Basically, I have a rust free E30 and transmissionless M5 taking up much of my garage. I really want an Aircooled Porsche, and I'm wondering if I'm better off:
1) selling everything as is, put towards the porsche
2) Putting the M30 in the E30, selling it. Get the M5 running and looking good - keep or sell.
3) Parting out the M5 - sell everything OR keep the S38 and put it in the E30, and do a full resto on the E30 ie: make it the "perfect" (to me) E30. That plan puts off what I really (illogically?) want - the p car.

///Maluco · 03-28-2011, 11:01 AM

It comes down to time and how much coin you have kicking around.
It seems you're busy with family life right now so I would suggest your first option. Let it all go and focus on the p car.

FWIW, I've been in an S38B36 powered E30 and it hauled some serious ass.... It'll only spell trouble if you can't control how heavy your right foot is though.