E30 Zone

Good day,

I currently have an E30 318i Auto and, due to my slow commute and a dicky leg, I don't really want to convert it to a manual any time soon.

However I would like a little bit more power whilst retaining 4cyl economy, so my question relates to linking a 318iS M42 engine to my current M40's auto gearbox. Is this doable? Has it been done before to anyone's knowledge?

Sorting the loom wouldn't be an issue for me, it's just whether the M42 will physically link up to my auto.

Thanks in advance,
Adam.

It should be possible. A lot of normal 318i models were sold in North America with the M42 engine. I'd be surprised if there wasn't an auto version of that car, automatics being so popular over there. Perhaps it's a starting point for more information?

Was never an auto M42 E30 even in the US.

But there is no reason why you can't do it as the fitment of the auto and manual boxes is exactly the same be it an M40 or M42.

There was auto E36 318iS alright.

You might need to get inventive with the throttle linkage for the kick-down cable.

M40 auto flywheel?

The E36 had a 318is auto model. I think with the M42 as well as the M44 engine.

http://www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk/bmw_e36.html