early 318 vs. 318is? pro / cons

[DaveInLA]

Pros: '91
Cons: '84-85

+1000

[BimmerToad]

If you're going to do a 24v swap and want a project, go with the early 318. Mtech I + S50 would be a great combo. But short of a mtechI kit, early cars look like ass (IMHO).

If you're not going to swap the engine and want a autox car to abuse, go with the 318is. As long as you keep up on the minimal engine maintenance, the m42 can be driven pretty hard.

early 318 = intensive project that could be a twisted track rat
late 318is = fun car that teaches proper technique (looks good out of the box too)

[AdironRider]

91 318is hands down. The m42 is a great motor and would rock on an auto-x course. Weight distribution on the m42 318is is also damn close to 50/50 - which is a difference you can really feel over a 325is. The car just feels amazing when pushed to the limit. I dont think the 91's weigh 300 lbs more, probably more along the lines of 150. Bill 84 318i weighed his m10 a while back and it was like 2400, cant see a 318is being much more than that. You can really feel the weight difference between a 318is and a 325is. Havent personally driven an m10. Also with a chip the m42 can really scream, without one your not getting the full experience. 3rd gear with my chipped m42 screams.

Just make sure you get a 318is WITH and lsd, unbeknownst to some it was only an option on the 318is, although I think the majority came with an lsd.

[Rob]

91 all the way, fewer rust issues, more suspension options, better motor, better brakes, better looking. Its a terror on the autocross course with good tires, ok brakes, decent suspension, and a willing driver.


FWIW- of the 6 m42 that have come through my hands, 2 had OEM lsds.

[Erick]

If you're going to do a 24v swap and want a project, go with the early 318. Mtech I + S50 would be a great combo. But short of a mtechI kit, early cars look like ass (IMHO).

I dunno about that, I like my 318i.



That being said, I've been contemplating a 16v swap for it.

[rwh11385]

Plastic bumpers
LSD
Brake drama
Motor

Maybe the costs of making an early cool is saved by a 91.


M42 may make a better DSP car... but I'd just be so tempted to throw a M20 drivetrain in and play in SM. plus, I'd miss the torque daily.

Let's see how this M42 locally plays out. There are issues with my car, and I just want a fun car until I'm out of school.

[e9nine]

M42 may make a better DSP car... but I'd just be so tempted to throw a M20 drivetrain in and play in SM. plus, I'd miss the torque daily.

Rather than swap an m20b25 to go end up in SM and get RAPED why not get a 325i/S to start off and stay in DSP?

If you want to go to SM with an e30 you would need $$$ depending on your competitive aspirations and local competition and you're better off with an s50 than an m20 ;)

[rwh11385]

I should already be in SM... :roll:

A lighter chassis with the engine I enjoy would be a better daily than mine with its issues... that I might just fix, but who knows. Forget competition, I'd be torn up just the same as I am now. Just PAX would be different.

I'm also likely to hop to SM or down to STX if my roommate goes into STS with his Mini since the stocks/street prepared run together, and the SM/street tourings are grouped. I'm more concerned about working with him than being competitive or PAX. Seattime is seattime, regardless of position or magnets.

[hamann318is]

M42 cars for sure, but this is coming from a kid who will not own a M20. Consider the less work too... self adjusting valves, no rotor/cap, etc... until the profile gasket goes.

Anyways, my car is a M42 with LSD and no sunroof.

[rwh11385]

M42 cars for sure, but this is coming from a kid who will not own a M20. Consider the less work too... self adjusting valves, no rotor/cap, etc... until the profile gasket goes.

Anyways, my car is a M42 with LSD and no sunroof.

I'm stealing your car.

http://tamparacing.com/forums/auto-x-road-racing/212197-g-stock-bmw.html#post2023562

http://www.trillium-bmwclub.ca/site/page.jsp?classndx06

I'm definitely highly considering repairing this local, low-mileage and decent 318is (even with a sunroof) and GS'ing it next year. Then ulimately throwing my shit in/on it instead of my M20.

[AdironRider]

Whats wrong with your car?

[rwh11385]

mainly gas tank, but i really don't like the rear subframe bushings, and some other things. I'm not feeling getting back into the ordeal i lived winter 04

[SchnellerVert]

M10 from a 2002 forged crank. FI it and have fun, cheap and budget. Pretty much bullet proof.

[PeaveyBassist]

Bobby, gas tank swap honestly isnt that hard. Rick can change those in 2 hours. It pays 4 hrs, and a brand new tank costs around $450-$500. So total cost to swap tanks would be around $800.

Will

[rwh11385]

Reggie said he'd give me the one he has for free. So it'd be $320 plus various expenses.

After figuring the spark plugs need replaced and deciding to buy the Plasma Booster, I think my car will be fine after the fuel tank is fixed... and diff swapped. I should be getting near the mileage of an M42, but with torque to live by daily.

I still want to help Doug with putting the 318is together and play with it.