What makes the E30 318is a fun driving car?

[E30 Wagen]

When it comes to swapping the M42 I've always thought the M44 has potential that gets overlooked. Just look at benz-tech's build: http://r3vlimited.com/board/showthread.php?t=359475

[roguetoaster]

When it comes to swapping the M42 I've always thought the M44 has potential that gets overlooked. Just look at benz-tech's build: http://r3vlimited.com/board/showthread.php?t=359475

I suspect that the M44 gets overlooked because of the crazy transition to roller rockers, and with good reason. That's not to say that it's a bad engine, rather that high RPM performance potential seems limited with the top end, thus why the DASC was developed for the M44.

Best of breed is probably the late M42, as it has knock detection with all of the flat tappet goodness you need, and it even has a much improved timing chain setup.

[robrez]

Is that a Downing Atlanta SC, Robert? How does it run? Selling? ;)

Yes, I scored a DASC from an early e36 m42 with hybrid V-belt/serpentine belt set-up.

[ThatOneEuroE30]

Yes, I scored a DASC from an early e36 m42 with hybrid V-belt/serpentine belt set-up.

If i ever decide to go FI on my 318 i want to use a downing kit

[roguetoaster]

Didn't realize that DASC was out when v belts were still a thing on M42s, very interesting.