Most appropriate and cost effective engine conversion 318is

[dimebag_from_hell]

Hi lads,
I know of a wee 318is needing mechanical work, I'm thinking of buying it with the aim of dropping something with more horse power into it.

I was thinking m30 but in terms of cost, ease of transplant etc are there better options out there?

All suggestions welcome

[Speedtouch]

For ease of transplant, I would suggest another M42 or possibly M43 engine.

However, why not be completely different, and fit an M40 318i donk in there? Probably a 'cheap as chips' option, while you rebuild the original M42.

[dimebag_from_hell]

Tbh I wouldn't entertain a 4 pot I need that 6 pot growl, so I should have mentioned an engine with a minimum of 6 cylinders

Any suggestions on a 6 pot?

[magpie]

3 options 170bhp fuel guzzler m20 b25 , same again but more so m30 of there is 24v's m50 m52 .

cheapest conversion is of course the m20 if being a regular visitor of your local fuel pumps is your thing .

[dimebag_from_hell]

I got an e30 sport already, so looking for more torque/horse power.

Is the M30 any thirstier than the m20?

cheers

[AdamGardner]

I like the idea of an m50/52 but they spoil the engine bay of an e30 by totally filling it. Still keep looking at them though

[jimbom30cab]

M30 is the best way

[Brianmoooore]

I like the idea of an m50/52 but they spoil the engine bay of an e30 by totally filling it.

M52 is a smaller and lighter engine than that primitive cast iron boat anchor that is a M30. Also has the correct number of valves andf cams.
The M30s one advantage is that it has holes that add up to 3500cc in the middle of it.