Is it wort swapping an m42 into an 85 318?

[cello2119]

I have access to an m42 engine and gearbox with 90,000 km on it for $1000. Is it worth swapping into my 85 318i? Considering id most likely have to put a big brake kit on, or at least convert the rears from drums to calipers, new exhaust and engine mounts, an LSD would also be preferred also. Would the cost be worth it if I do most of the labour? Or should I buy the engine and gearbox and wait until I find a 318is with a fucked engine or gearbox?

[lukeADE335i]

The early 318i shell is lighter than the late one, so should be a worthwhile upgrade. While ultimately you probably would upgrade to vented fronts (if your car has solid) and rear discs, I don't really see why the stock 318i discs and drums are a problem. They pull the car up fine with the M10 in it, and the M42 doesn't have that much grunt. Never had a problem with the solid discs / drums in my old 316i.

Just make sure you grab the driveshaft with your engine and gearbox if you can, as it is different from the M10.

[cello2119]

The early 318i shell is lighter than the late one, so should be a worthwhile upgrade. While ultimately you probably would upgrade to vented fronts (if your car has solid) and rear discs, I don't really see why the stock 318i discs and drums are a problem. They pull the car up fine with the M10 in it, and the M42 doesn't have that much grunt. Never had a problem with the solid discs / drums in my old 316i.

Just make sure you grab the driveshaft with your engine and gearbox if you can, as it is different from the M10.

So all I would really need to complete the swap is the m42 driveshaft and engine mounts and I should be alright. My sisters had an 85 318 coupe and the clutch just blew, she'll sell me hers for $300. I'm thinking of just using hers a project car for the m42 and drive my 4 door as a daily.

[DesertBMW]

because you are in Australia maybe. But here in USA we would just swap it to M52 because they cost as much as M42

[cello2119]

because you are in Australia maybe. But here in USA we would just swap it to M52 because they cost as much as M42

Life in the US seems a lot better for car stuff

[E30SPDFRK]

Not worth the effort, it's still gonna be slow and will get the same mpg.

[mitchlikesbikes]

in my opinion the cost and headache of the swap probably won't really be worth it unless you go for something with more power.

[raudonis]

Not enough info to advice.

I have access to an m42 engine and gearbox with 90,000 km on it for $1000.

What is price for comparable m20, m50 package where you live?

Considering id most likely have to put a big brake kit on, or at least convert the rears from drums to calipers

This is your decision or obligatory because of your local laws?