1985 318i

[T.O.]

Just got a 1985 318i. Looking to lower it right away. The problem is I heard the front housings on this model are 45mm? Don't know if this is true or not. Because of this can't find any coilover sets that easily or a good shock and spring combo. Also will the raceland coilovers fit this car??

[T.O.]

Also would the e30 ground control kit work?

[MR 325]

You'll need to upgrade to the 51mm housings to run anything decent (including Ground Control).

Please don't buy that Raceland junk!

[T.O.]

You'll need to upgrade to the 51mm housings to run anything decent (including Ground Control).

Please don't buy that Raceland junk!

Thanks for the help! How do I upgrade to the 51mm housings??

[Smelser]

if its an 85, it may be 51mm housing already, I thought it was the earlier 84 that was 45mm

[T.O.]

I should measure to double check. My buddy has a 1989 325i parts car. If mine are 45mm, could I get everything I need for the swap from his car?? What all exactly do I need.

[Holland]

if its an 85, it may be 51mm housing already, I thought it was the earlier 84 that was 45mm

Nope. 85 and earlier are 45mm. Essentially non ABS cars.

Op, you can make a decent setup with 45mm housings, although 51mm is the more common application. Bilstein sports are available in 45mm.

[MR 325]

I should measure to double check. My buddy has a 1989 325i parts car. If mine are 45mm, could I get everything I need for the swap from his car?? What all exactly do I need.

Everything swaps right over. (Except the strut insert of course)

You could also benefit from his front brake setup though since it's designed to use the vented rotors and yours is not.