M6x vs LS1 into a E30 Touring. Pros/Cons of either power plant?

[slammin.e28]

One of them doesn't still use 1950s technology.

[pandaboo911]

If you want "rock solid reliability" dont buy an LS1
If you do m60 do the timing chain guides

For me it would be no question..m60

[driftingminor913]

M60 and Ls1 aren't that heavy, there is like a 30lbs difference

[Vtec?lol]

both will end up costing around the same depending on what you want.
What it boils down to is what transmission do you want?
if you want the 6spd then the M60 will be cheaper up front. The t56 for the ls1 will cost more than the m60 swap entirely.

350whp is ls1 territory. cheapest to mod and maintain/upgrade. This swap would be easiest.

M60 is bigger and heavier, only about 270-280whp and virtually no real affordable upgrades or mods other than a tune/chip. Cost more to maintain. this motor with a 6spd is still fun and reliable.


Do your research. Only you can really figure out whats best for you and which way you'd like to go.

I did months of research before I started my m60 swap. I was going to go s5x but the more I listened to exhaust clips, the more I wanted the V8. Then I pondered on the lsx for a while but couldn't find a 6spd anywhere so I went M60... Just the sound of it.... Lawd!

[Viking445]

Howdy guys. :) I'm looking for advice on which power plant to put in the E30 (probly a 318i) touring i'm gonna be getting while i'm stationed here in Italy.

Please dont say M60 series motor just b/c its a bmw. I care about rock solid reliability, ease of repair and cheap mods not what symbol is stamped on the valve cover. Looking for 350rwhp after the mods.


Should i budget for a new rear end? Does the stock unit come with a LSD and will it stand up to the abuse? I plan to take the car to the track and street abuse.