OK, so I know that the s50 is simpler to swap in, since it's OBDI, but the s52 has more torque, and with the OBDI conversion, more hp. However, the '95 s50's can be had for close to $1k less (low miles) than the s52. Is getting an s52 worth it? I know that doing the OBDI conversion takes some work, but I'm not too concerned with that.
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That's a question you can answer best yourself. If you are trying to go long term, I'd personally go S50 IF you found one cheap, plus it's a "one stop shopping" type deal, and down the line worry about finding a S52. Those will be dime-a-dozen as more teens get these for a '1st car'. Even a M50 just to get all the OBD1 goods, and then a S52 shortblock. It's all a tradeoff between wants, needs, and economics. You have to prioritize those 3 words, and there will be your answer.
It's not how you handle the good times, but the faith you keep in the bad that defines you. -
Will a S52 obdI with a ltw flywheel rev just as happy/quickly as a S50?
As time went on, the factory developed the car each year, making it faster, more comfortable, and capable of handling at higher speeds.
You don’t want this. You want the trickiest, most dangerous, oldest model you can find. Only then can you prove to the world that you’re a man.Comment
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Linus-you make some really good points. I'm doing all the research that I can on the swap and getting really eager to get started. The reality is though, the swap probably won't happen for another year. So why get it now, have it sit for a year when I could pick it up cheaper then right?
Another thing I could do, when ready, is install an S52, getting running and then do the OBDI swap. If anything, I should start collecting OBDI parts. I do like the bigger block for the torque. The plan I have is to have a reliable daily driver, with some track use in mind. I'm not looking to build a track-only car.Comment
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have fun trying to wire in a OBDII motor
As time went on, the factory developed the car each year, making it faster, more comfortable, and capable of handling at higher speeds.
You don’t want this. You want the trickiest, most dangerous, oldest model you can find. Only then can you prove to the world that you’re a man.Comment
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I know it's not the easiest thing but there's plenty of info online. Besides that, I work with electromechanical stuff at work all the time. Not too worried on that regard :)
I'm still throwing ideas around in my head. I'll probably just end up getting all the parts together and doing it all at the same time.Comment
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Find someone with a donor motor. Its easy.91 m3Comment
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Convert to OBDI, it's easy as pie. I made one work in 2 easy evenings of wiring. That included AC, OBDI conversion, tach works, speedo works, speed sensor works...Originally posted by madjurgen View PostComment
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Yeah, converting doesn't sound half-bad. I'm an Mechanical Engineer by trade-and I'm rebuilding a Jeep in the garage as we speak. That is the reason why this project is going to wait till next year. I can only have one engine on the stand at a time-know what I mean?
The question now becomes, do I get the s52 now or later? I've seen a couple for sale, a '97 w/~50k miles including 5-speed tranny, ECU, accessories for $4500 OR a '98 M-coupe s52 w/33k miles including 5-speed, etc (like above) for the same price..
Nice low mile engines. What are the odds something like this will be available in a year???Comment
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I'd get an S52 if it wasn't much more expensive. They make great power once converted (mainly because of intake manifold).
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Good god an S50 for 500. Gay i got my M50 short block, friend swaped an s52 into his E36 and used all the parts from the m50 to make it obd1 and I bought the M50 for 500. Then i had to buy all the stuff just to make the engine back to norm. Damnit :curse: and now i just getting to the stuff like power steering pump that was left on the 36 and now the booster and mc thats about all i have left to get i need the cam and crank sensor though after that its just droping the pig in.
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If u r not concern with the work go for it I have a 91 s52 convertible and the power to weight ratio is funComment
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