Improving a 325e

[Jacksontheogre]

I have a 1987 325e and for the time being I want to improve the motor and maybe a swap down the road. From what I've read so far a MAF conversion, 3.25lsd swap and a tune provide the best result. I have also read the swapping that top of the block from an "e" to an "i" is also a good option, so I was wonder what all that involves, how much it would be and where I can find the parts.

[Dirtsquirt]

Sell it and buy a 325i.

Done

[Mr.SWISS]

Bring it to me and I'll do a 24v swap for ya. ( for the right price of course)

[Cabriolet]

you can get a chip for it. a MAF will give 0 gain on that head.
swapping heads is a lot more work. you have to convert wiring the harness, dash cluster, exhaust... and all for like 20hp.
or you can swap to an M50 very cheap and get 50hp+ easy.

[Jacksontheogre]

the M50 is from the 5 series correct? I found one with 188k for $700. I assume the swap is the same amount of work a converting to an I set up I.E. new dash cluster, wiring harness etc etc.

[Cabriolet]

i know you need the oil pan from the 5series beyond that idk. there is a 24v section and probably 1000 posts on how to do it correctly.

[xwill112x]

700 is to much for an m50 unless it has all brandnew parts and gaskets on it.

[Jacksontheogre]

700 is to much for an m50 unless it has all brandnew parts and gaskets on it.

is it worth sourcing from on of these used parts companies or would it be best to hit the salvage yard and rebuild?

[xwill112x]

find someone with a wrecked e34 or parting one or even a e36...like 450ish is all i would do on a m50.

[MR 325]

the M50 is from the 5 series correct? I found one with 188k for $700. I assume the swap is the same amount of work a converting to an I set up I.E. new dash cluster, wiring harness etc etc.

Doing a head swap on your M20 is much easier than swapping in a 24v engine.

[M-technik-3]

Enjoy the fact that it's miserly on fuel

[Jacksontheogre]

I guess the only advantage is thats if i just switch to an "i" top half i don't have to worry about swapping all of the transmission components as well. On the other hand it seem like the 24v swap is where the power is at unless your do forced induction which i understand is about $2500 by itself. I'm headed out to a euro salvage yard to see what i can come up with...anyother types of motor i could possibly look out for?

[Insane E30]

i also have a 325e, a chip will give you a little extra boot, and the rear end, anymore and i think it would be a waste. its a great torque'y engine and a better rear will help you use that power better.

i've seen good results from an I swap and talked to guys who have first hand experience, they say its worth it, just do it right, quality parts and make sure to upgrade the exhaust at the same time, mil the head just a touch...

watching this thread as i want ideas that don't involve swapping motors, i love the m20, the mighty sewing machine!

[camip]

I've heard mixed results on the 325i head swap I've been contemplating it.

[squidmaster]

chip it, drive around, get 27-35mpg, be faster than civics, and save for an m50. I was going to do a 2.7i stroker as well, but after reading a lot it seems that an m50 swap would be cheaper and yield better results. just an opinion though!