E36 M44 SWAP direct fit?

[E30Riech]

Is the e36 M42/M44 a direct fit into the e30 318is?
If not what will I need. Has anyone done this?
What e36 year engine would be better to purchase since I heard some are prone to head gasket problems.
Thanks for any help.

[hamann318is]

The timing profile gasket was a problem on the E30 M42, and then BMW upgraded the rubber used solving the problem. Though, I've read that some E36s still have the problem.

What's the point of going from a M42 to the M44?

[Van Westervelt]

1.8 to 1.9 L and its a newer engine, a few differences give you a little more power, but barely. Also other than the very first ones in e36's, they all used 1 serpentine belt instead of the 3 drive belts.

[1991 318is]

The important differences!

I think of this as an option if the M42 goes south. A good used low mile engine for $1000 put in as an alternative to rebuilding the M42. Swap out the accessories and/or pulleys, put on the M42 intake or do whatever to the OBD electronics and go with it.
What are the horsepower and torque figures?

[E30Riech]

e30 318is M42:
134hp @ 6000rpm
127tq @ 4600 rpm

e36 318is M42 to '95:
138hp @ 6000rpm
129tq @ 4500rpm

e36 318is M44 from '96:
138hp @ 6000rpm
133tq @ 4300rpm

e30 318is M42 Downing/Atlanta Supercharger @ 2psi:
188hp @ 6800rpm
155tq @ 5300rpm
at the wheels. GRM June 2006 issue.

[mockngbrd]

hmm..sorry to dig up this thread.

but just wondering how much werk is involved in putting the E36's M44 into my M40 engined E30? (i wanna swap the E36's steering rack too)

S14s are way too expensive for mi :S

[mockngbrd]

mmm anyone?