need new opinions poll now included

[Car Addict]

Alright so my friend with the m3 and I have decided we do not want to get rid of our cars just yet maybe later on but for now we are happy.

On to the reason for me making this thread. I have a pretty good looking 318is that is in need of an overhaul on the engine, this includes basically everything above and including the head gasket. AKA all new hydraulic lifters, timing chain guide rails, timing chain, etc. The cooling system will also be included in this overhaul new hoses, radiator, and that junk. And finally I am planning on getting the A/C finally working.

All said and done the final bill for all parts is Approx. $1300-$1800.

Should I do that or put that towards an engine swap. Yes I know I am going to need more money than $1800 to do what I will want AKA S52 or S50b32. However I am very fortunate to be able to borrow some money if need be.

So what does R3V feel should be done.

[e30e]

Never borrow money for projects, you'll end up hating yourself.

[Car Addict]

By borrow I mean my parents are willing to throw some money my way to get my car done the way I want. No I am not a kid that gets whatever he wants, far from it. I have paid for everything in and on my car currently by busting my ass at some really crappy jobs. My parents have money and are willing to pay for part of this project; after all the work I did on their cars for the past 8 years, and all the work I do on their house.

This is also a second e30 that I have so a time frame is not as important, but less than 6 months of wrenching time would be good.

[RainierHooker]

Option 7: Rebuild M42 into S42

[Vince30]

s54

[Matt-B]

Option 7: Rebuild M42 into S42

first pic I saved when i got into e30s was a s42 motor

[Adrian_Visser]

The power difference between a US s50 and an s52 isn't all that huge, the main drawback IMO for an S50 is that most of them are high mileage.

Now if you want a Euro engine consider that the price of the engine etc. will be around double the value of your car just some food for thought.

[bimma360]

Option 7: Rebuild M42 into S42

first pic I saved when i got into e30s was a s42 motor

That was the first thing that came to my mind before i even finished the list in the poll. There are times i wish my car started as a 318 so that way I'd have a reason to build up an m42.

[Ryan...]

I chose boosted M50 because of the relative cheapness of the motor, and the big potential of boost. IMO that may be your best "bang for buck" option.
However, killing a friend is something that's been on my bucket list for quite some time now...

[xwill112x]

m50 turbo. :)

[Massimo]

2lt m42 build ftw

[mkcman17]

killing a friend is something that's been on my bucket list for quite some time now...

says the man with the 'no country for old men' avi

[trackjunkie21]

Rebuild the m42, get an m44 block, s52 pistons and there you have it, a 1.95 liter m42.

[M3TROY]

euro m3 motor..... hey thats what im doing :up:

[CorvallisBMW]

2.0 m42