Are trannies in those really the same?: e36 328i and e46 328i sedan

[static]

i've checked realoem and part# are all the same, does this guarantee they are absolutely identical?
i might have a good deal on a tranny from '99 e46 but i wanna make sure i can use it on the S50

Thanks
Alex

[So Live]

My zf trans came from a e46 328i and bolted up perfectly to my m50 which is the same bolt pattern as your s50. That with the e46 328i drive shaft and the e30 csb turned around backwards was a PERFECT fit. Im still in shock it all bolted up.