E30 Vs E36

[T-Bar]

I'll keep it short and sweet, Ups and downs of boosting an E30 325 as opposed to an E36 325 or 328. Other than the obvious that the E36 is newer and some will be OBD2, id be interested in ultimately taking an e30 swapping in the E36 m3 or 328 motor and boosting that, but I figure why not keep the stock motor from the E30 build the bottom end and boost the shit out of it, some feedback would be great, also im in the GTA what shops around here can i go shoot thee breeze with about boosted Bimmers?

[propr'one]

M52 (328) and s52 (m3) motors have an aluminum crankcase, which makes them better for forced induction. However, you can boost stock e30's. An s52 swap and a FI kit in a e30 would fly.

I dont know about shoot the breeze, rocco's really busy these days, but i'm sure he could answer your questions. He owns RMP motors, #'s 905 951 0002

[T-Bar]

thanks , swapping in the stock s52 is gonna cost a pretty penny, wont be able to build the bottom end on my budget, not right away anyways. What kinda boost can they take on their stock bottom end? also im looking to make about 320ish whp, what are most guys with stock bottom ends making?

[SickFinga]

Originally Posted by propr'one

M52 (328) and s52 (m3) motors have an aluminum crankcase, which makes them better for forced induction. However, you can boost stock e30's. An s52 swap and a FI kit in a e30 would fly.

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
1. US spec m52/s52 have iron block, not aluminum (z3 has aluminum)
2. Iron is better for boost.



T-Bar, go with M50 or M52. It is easier to boost than M20 (e30 engine) because boost mods are more common.

[propr'one]

Correct, 328 have a forged crank, not aluminum. thanks vlad-y sweetie

[T-Bar]

so really id be better off buying an e36. to swap in an m52/S52 into an E30, the only thing is be gaining is a lighter car and definately style, is the weight difference that significant keeping in mind the e30 will have an M50 series motor in it.