Is the 320i a good engine for an E30?

[Rob_316i]

Hi guys

I used to run around in a '91 316i for work.

I currently have a '95 318iS coupe for work and a '93 MR2 putting out just under 300bhp for a weekend car. I have no intention to sell either of these but fancy making use of the mother-in-laws garage to do an E30 restoration as I loved my old one.

Ideally I would want a 318is E30 but they are pricey and whilst the engine is good I don't think it is amazing, as I currently own the '95 iS with the same engine.

I would like a 6 pot therefore, and would appreciate your opinions on what you think of the 320i in an E30?

Cheers

[tez180]

If you don't think the 318is is ALL that then you will no doubt be dissapointed with the power on a 320.

Can of worms tho.

[Cloggy Saint]

Not the quickest but silky smooth and reliable.

[harry_p]

the 6pot is a nice sounding, creamy smooth engine. just a shame they drink so much for so little performance. the 318 is a little slower, but uses a lot less fuel. the 325 is a fair bit more powerfull yet doesnt drink much more.

on the flip side, most 320s were bought by people not interested in performance, i.e old people, so you tend to find a lot of rot free, low owner, garaged cars tend to be 320s (usually autos too, which cripples performance even more... )

[VeinAST]

Coming from my Clio to the BMW the power is certainly down for the size of the engine but it does make a good noise! Needs to be given a good amount of revs to get anywhere fast!

[ross_jsy]

as stated a bit of a boat anchor with lack-luster performance.

how ever, if its a good shell, have you considered your other options i.e. m50/52 swap?

[Rob_316i]

Thanks guys - sounds exactly the same as the E36 318is Vs 320i! I thought it may be better in a lighter shell.

What I will do in that case is look for a 316i in good condition and a 325 lump to drop in.

I'm being very lazy now - are there any good posts to look at to show how to go about the conversion?

thanks!