Black top BEAMS 3SGE E30

[E30SPDFRK]

Because you can put in other motors that make more power for less money.

[Chaos Theory]

(although the RS200 didn't come in the US, so it probably won't be THAT cheap this side of the pond)

After a search on eBay US I found quite a few engine packages for roughly the same price.

The RAV 4 and MR2 BEAMS 3SGE are cheaper as they're only single VVT-I but would be a harder conversion as they aren't in RWD configuration. I don't think they would even be worth it, unless you were planning to disable the VVTI and install large cams.

[antil33t]

Do it, just measure the height, the 3S is quite a tall engine.

[Chaos Theory]

Do it, just measure the height, the 3S is quite a tall engine.

That is one thing that has me concerned, however, a raised hood with the inner skeleton removed or complete FRP/Carbon replacement could possibly provide enough room.

The E30s hood latching design makes it seem quite easy to move up 25-30mm. This should also provide better heat dissipation, acting as a vent.

[Bimmerman325i]

I think it's a wicked swap idea.

[naplesE30]

I see this being more work then worth the cheap price of the engine. I am not sure what all engines you have access to being in Australia but it seems like there would be easier swaps for the $$$. But, by all means I would love to see you pull it off. I guess you canalways buy an engine, test fit it to see what all fab is needed and if worse comes to worse sell the engine for what you bought it for.

[E-Thirty]

I say go for it. If you have the means/resources to complete it, why not?

[Supadave]

added pic

This is pretty cool, but pricey.

http://www.h1v8.com/page/page/1562068.htm

look how small it is sitting next to a 2.0 ford engine

[Chaos Theory]

H1V8 is probably the coolest V8 ever.

I've got a 2.0 Zetec laying around that I was going to use in a MK2 Escort but I ended up selling that car to fund building my AE86.

A well built Zetec would be a decent engine for an E30 but I don't think many would be able to look past the Ford badge.

[DavidV]

Why not a 3SGTE?

-- DavidV :D

[Anthony88ac]

do it!!!

[Chaos Theory]

Why not a 3SGTE?

3SGTE never came in RWD configuration which adds the difficulties of finding and piecing together all the bits associated with turning the engine 90degrees.
Nissan CA18DET or SR20DET would probably be the way to go for cheap turbo power.


I also believe that NA is where it's at. You just cant beat the sound and response of a hypo high comp N/A motor with open ITB's and tuned length screaming up to 9,000RPM.

[DavidV]

3SGTE never came in RWD configuration which adds the difficulties of finding and piecing together all the bits associated with turning the engine 90degrees.
Nissan CA18DET or SR20DET would probably be the way to go for cheap turbo power.


I also believe that NA is where it's at. You just cant beat the sound and response of a hypo high comp N/A motor with open ITB's and tuned length screaming up to 9,000RPM.

I dunno, my MR2 is currently pushing 475whp on an unopened 3SGTE, so although I love the sound and looks of ITBs, there is something to be said for the power potential of forced induction.

Also, the MR2 is RWD, but since it is essentially a fwd transaxle mounted in the back, your point is taken. That being said, the Alltracs ran awd, so they were sending power to the rear wheels.

Regardless, cool project. Keep us posted...

-- DavidV :D

[kai1980]

i'm on the verge of taking on the very same conversion for my '83 318i.
heaps cheaper than rebuilding my m10 for higher hp.
i'm dead set on sticking with a 4-pot.

keep us posted if you do it!

we'll have to wait and see whether i do too.....

cheers

Kai

[Thedude00]

Its not a BMW anymore when you drop a engine in like that. I drive a BMW for what they made. Dropping a motor from a different year or make is fine.