318is with Automatic box?

[flybmw]

Hi folks.

I am in the middle of swapping M42 into my 1993 e30 touring. My car came with Auto box from factory and now am thinking of throwing in the Manual box from e36 318is (engine is also from e36 318is).

The question: will it be possible at all to 'marry' m42 engine with M40 Auto gearbox currently on my e30?

On a general note, have e30 318is ever been produced with Automatic gearbox?

[terryjippo]

I've read you can stick the auto box straight onto the M42 unit, though I haven't done it myself. E30 318iS only came with a manual box, somewhat defeated the object of having it as an auto I think. However the E36 318iS came in manual and auto.

If it were me, I'd keep it manual, but think you will have to swap the diff as the one used in the auto M40s will give you good revs but poor top speed?

[flybmw]

Thanks mate. Yes, in the long run I am planning to change the stock diff which is 4.45 I think. Looking out for LSD diff at the moment. Still hesitant whether to remain Auto or go Manual...

[daimlerman]

I would imagine that your main problem will be the torque convertor.If this will transfer to the M42,then you are home and dry!

Be a much nicer car with an ex M40 5 speed manual working through an ex 320i 4:1 diff,though!

[DHFiS]

On a general note, have e30 318is ever been produced with Automatic gearbox?

318i yes
318iS no

[flybmw]

Thanks for all the clarification.

[flybmw]

Be a much nicer car with an ex M40 5 speed manual working through an ex 320i 4:1 diff,though!

The one you mention is non-LSD. I wanna get LSD diff though. Which one should I hunt for?