Newbie question - 320i 6cyl engine swap?

[zourtney]

Hi all,

I've got a '77 320i (4 cyl) that threw a rod, so the block is toast. I was wondering if it is possible to swap an inline-6 into this model. Is there enough room? Will the drivetrain handle the extra power? If it's possible, is it feasable?

Thanks,
zourtney

 

[epj3]

You'd probalby be better off buying a bmw with a 6 cylinder in it already. Unless you're attached to the 77 3 series, i'd go for an e30, like an 87 and newer if at all possible.

 

[zourtney]

Thanks, I was just looking for a way to redeem my mom's old toy ;-)

Know of any places I can get a motor for a decent price (the 4 or 6 cylinders)?

-- zourtney

 

[epj3]

ebay.

 

[junglestylz]

Ebay and most salvage yards. He is right about the six cylinder deal. You would have to go through and upgrade the front end suspension on it for the added weight. If you really want something. find an M40/42 engine to drop in it. It's a good high winding little engine, but keep in mind there is a lot more to an engine swap than just droppin' a new motor in.

 

[Piluso1]

might want to use a 91 318i, great for it or a 325is six, makes a helluva car. My bro has an 83 with an S14 on it and is almost undrivable, chews the rear 15's up to third and you can't go wrong on power to weight ratio.

 

[ldzpstnr]

Hey guys.

Dont forget BMW made a BMW 320/6. Its a rare model and some did come to the states. Its just an M20, either a 2.0 version or a 2.3 if I remember correctly.

I think www.bmwworld.com has some info about it if you go searching there site. I think the swap would be fairly easy, the only challenging part would be putting some type of fuel injection on it. Heck, would be easier to just put two Weber carbs on it... I think the weber/redline website has the kits even availably, if I remember correctly.

Later

 

[ldzpstnr]

Oh I forgot.

I do have an extra M10 block from a '85 318i. It needs rebuilt, has around 250k on it. But the block is not cracked. Its the same block as your 2.0 engine, the only different being that your crankshaft is a 80mm throw and the 1.8 is a 71mm throw. They have the same 89mm bore. Sam camshaft I beleive also.

You might be able to find a lower mileage, better running engine someplace else. Just its here if needed.

 

[equate]

I will sell you my engine for $3k and it comes with a free body and rest of car.