E30 Zone

From which BMW models will I be able to find a non vanos M50B25 from?

I would prefer an M52 but I'm trying to keep the conversion as straightforward as possible. I was considering just upgrading to a M20B25 but everyone keeps saying to go the 24v route and I think I would struggle to find a pre-facelift M20 engine. I may even consider an M30 3.5.

Also will I face any extra problems with my car being a pre facelift?

None vanos M50B25 is early 325 e36 and 525 E34

Chromies have a different rev counter pick up. Instead of it going through the c101 its a plug under the dash. Thats about it for differences.

M30's are a good old donk but are old and heavy. 12v fail 24v ftw.

Any of the M5x are a good donk but hold out for a good M52 as they are a very good donk.

Also if you go the latter engine route you will have ews to worry about. This isnt a problem as long as you have the box, loom and chip for the key

M50B28 would be my choice if starting again or maybe look into other crankshaft options from the Bmw parts bin.

Cheers Dezzy,

I used to have a 328i a few years back and It was a good donk. What do you have to do with the EWS box, loom and chip to get the car running?

I quite like the idea of the non-vanos b25 being quite a straight forward bit of kit and I think about 200bhp should keep me happy.

At least I've already got the M20 starter motor, flywheel etc. Just need an M40/42 box and e34 sump.

With a few bolt on parts and a chip ect a good m50 will crack 200bhp. Someone on here achived 217bhp on the rollers with a nice service, a chip and 2.5' exhaust. That's enough for me for now. Also the m20 flywheel livens the lump up somewhat .
Most would say m52 2.8 but I didn't go this route as the ally block put me off! I may swap the internals into my iron m50 block later when I get borred lol.
Whichever you choose I'm sure you will be as happy as I am with mine
24v e30 FTW