Replacement or BMW body panel?

[Just Scott]

Any thoughts on the value of genuine BMW versus "replacement" body panels?

Mine needs a new nose panel or core support (41131971102). I can buy a used BMW piece that has to be cut off for $100 plus shipping, a Replacement brand for $120 shipped or genuine BMW for $300 plus shipping.

Besides brand and price, any good suppliers? I've found Pelican and Autopartsdiscount for the replacement, BavAuto has the BMW too. Anybody I'm missing?

I know the BMW will fit - not sure I can get the used part cut off cleanly enough to meet my expectations. The replacement just worries me that it won't fit right - if I want that I'll keep the slightly tweeked one in there now.

As far as replacing, it looks like 10-20 spot welds and maybe 6-10" of weld to cut through. I have the tools and skills to handle the job, so that's not a concern.

[Just Scott]

I found Bavarian Auto recycling on ebay. Looks like they have the used and replacement available. Also they are US based and may actually be able to say if the parts are crap or not...

[StereoInstaller1]

Any thoughts on the value of genuine BMW versus "replacement" body panels?

Mine needs a new nose panel or core support (41131971102). I can buy a used BMW piece that has to be cut off for $100 plus shipping, a Replacement brand for $120 shipped or genuine BMW for $300 plus shipping.

Besides brand and price, any good suppliers? I've found Pelican and Autopartsdiscount for the replacement, BavAuto has the BMW too. Anybody I'm missing?

I know the BMW will fit - not sure I can get the used part cut off cleanly enough to meet my expectations. The replacement just worries me that it won't fit right - if I want that I'll keep the slightly tweeked one in there now.

As far as replacing, it looks like 10-20 spot welds and maybe 6-10" of weld to cut through. I have the tools and skills to handle the job, so that's not a concern.

Is this question pertaining a 1993 'vert?

If no, what car?

If yes, WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU THINKING!

'93 cabby gets real parts, even if you get Ramen for lunch.

/thread

[Just Scott]

Thanks, I appreciate the feedback. It is my 93 vert, it is NOT an MTech car, just a standard 325i 5-speed.

Forgive my ignorance, but does the fact that they are the last of the E30s and only made for a month or so in 93 make them extra, extra special in some way? Is it a "needle-in-the-haystack"? Again, I'm just trying to understand what I have and how it is perceived in the community.

Good thing I like Ramens, developed a taste for them 20 years ago in college...

Thanks,
Scott

[nando]

they are fairly rare, newer than all the other E30s, and they are the late body style (rather than diving boards). Not needle in a haystack, but definitely one of the least common E30s.

[StereoInstaller1]

Soak it in hot hot water for about 5 minutes and stir fry. Use a decent teriyaki glaze, maybe some chunks of chicken, some peas, its good. Budget yakisoba, basically.