Newbie questions

[atan88]

Im very well experienced with E30 M3s but always admired the styling of the IS model. I need some advice. Im thinking of buying a Sterling 318is and I have a few questions. I plan to keep it stock (25mpg) but lowered with Euroweaves and install a full M Tech 2 kit.

1) What are the things I should look for? Know rust areas and mechanical issues.

2) Got to have it mods. (recommendations and brand)

3) Rare parts to find.

4) Correct tire size for Euroweaves

5) Whats the difference between OEM M tech 2 kits (ebay and OEM)

6) For aftermarket Mtech kits who makes the best?

Pls feel free to show pics. Thanks in advance guys ..

Alvin ;)

[ak-]

Here are some links I've saved when I almost got me a 318is.

http://www.esatclear.ie/~bpurcell/318isfaultstable.html

http://www.esatclear.ie/~bpurcell/318ismods.html

http://bmwnut.blogspot.com/2006/04/1991-e30-bmw-318is-performance-mods.html

http://www.r3vlimited.com/board/showthread.php?t=114492

Hope I helped!

[Rodoni]

I run 205/55/15s on my euroweaves. I think it looks great. 195/50s are too small IMO

[Ral]

Alvin- you asking about mods for a 318is is like Lewis Hamilton getting driving advice from Jeremy Clarkson.

[atan88]

Alvin- you asking about mods for a 318is is like Lewis Hamilton getting driving advice from Jeremy Clarkson.

There are always new stuff to learn

[Farbin Kaiber]

Alvin, there is no reason for someone with tastes as refined as yours to think about an aftermarket tech2 kit.

[hugh jass]

Alvin, there is no reason for someone with tastes as refined as yours to think about an aftermarket tech2 kit.

yes, definitely go with an oem mtech2 kit. the fit will be much better.

[Farbin Kaiber]

Are you keeping the m42?

If so, seek out a Downing Atlanta supercharger kit. There are used ones to be had out there. I should be starting on a 318iS soon, and I can't imagine what things you could do to yours that will inspire me.

[87e30]

205/50/15 for a euro weave. (With coilovers)

[iamsam]

87e30: that is pure sex. i LOVE your wheels/suspension setup. And not to mention the rest of the car that is flawless.

to the OP:

first thing: do the "mess under the intake delete" here: http://www.m42club.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2742

all that shit:


It simplifies things a bunch. Also a common wear part is the timing chain tensioner. It takes like 10 minutes to replace and costs like $20 or something.

Do the Downing Atlanta supercharger. I think they are back on the market unless something changes recently.

[atan88]

Alvin, there is no reason for someone with tastes as refined as yours to think about an aftermarket tech2 kit.

yes, definitely go with an oem mtech2 kit. the fit will be much better.

Thanks guys. I was reading and the MT2 side skirts are NLA :(

Yes I plan to keep the M42. I just want do that cool euro look. It looks so clean and correct.

87e30 thats a nice ride you got. Guys feel free to post pics of cars with the mt2 kit and OEM 318is side skirts.

[HarryPotter]

205/50/15 for a euro weave. (With coilovers)

Holy shit, my jaw just hit the floor. Those euro weaves? Fuck, that thing is nice. How does 10k cash sound?

[deutschman]

as fare as the suspension set up i would go with bilstein sports and h&r sport springs (race if you want it that tiny bit lower). i was very very happy with that set up because it was just low enough and firm enough with out being a back braker and still keeping me in the corners on weekend drivers.
here is my old 318

not the best picture but you can kinda see how low it was.

[ZM Blue Devil]

1) What are the things I should look for? Know rust areas and mechanical issues.

2) Got to have it mods. (recommendations and brand)
COP Kit, Mark D Chip, After Market Exhaust, Flywheel, CAI

3) Rare parts to find.
Pretty much same as any e30, body kits, wheels, etc.

4) Correct tire size for Euroweaves
See if you can some Ronal LS...

5) Whats the difference between OEM M tech 2 kits (ebay and OEM)
Fitment, also consider other body kits, like BBS, Hartge, etc.

6) For aftermarket Mtech kits who makes the best?
Knowing your taste... NO ONE

[Jean]

I would look for one with OEM black headliner. Rest is easy bolt on stuff.