M42 vs M40

Mon Oct 19, 2009 10:36 pm

Just wondering how much better a m42 is in comparison to my standard m40 engine, drove a few e36 318is and always thought they were really lacking in power. Do the engines feel any better in an e30 as they must be slightly lighter. I am currently getting a car ready for a road rally and wondering if its worth going for the swap. Also do engines from e36 fit wiring etc?? Cheers for any advise

Wed Oct 21, 2009 9:09 am

Only about 20 brake difference in standard form, but the 16v can be chipped to make more power. Not really worth faffing with the E36 as there are a few E30 M42 engines around for £200 or so. Your money, but for me £200 and a weekend in the garage is a cheap 20hp with tuning potential for more when budget allows.

Wed Oct 21, 2009 9:34 am

Surely more power is always worth having and with the M42 you get reliability as well? Chipping the engine might free few more bhp and it removes the rev limiter. If 115bhp is enough stick with the M40.

The E36 came with the M42 and M44 engine. There is lots of info about swapping them on this site.

Thu Oct 22, 2009 12:16 am

Cheers for that, think i have got an m42 lined up now, time to get it fitted. Only got 5 weeks until im competing in a road rally in it.

Thu Oct 22, 2009 12:20 am

AdamGardner wrote:Cheers for that, think i have got an m42 lined up now, time to get it fitted. Only got 5 weeks until im competing in a road rally in it.

not much time left then?! thats the spirit!