Which M50?

[barker246]

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?

[Dezzy]

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

[oldroydsr4]

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

[barker246]

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.

[e30-EVN]

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