Engine Swap vs. Turbo or Both?
 

I have been looking at an engine swap for a 3.2l Euro-spec M3 motor and its looking to cost me about 6k for the motor alone, that or the 3.0l euro m3 motor, I have decided. Well, I was looking at the AA Turbo kit for the US-spec M3 and its got me thinking. For the most part, US M3 motors are a dime a dozen by comparison to its euro counterpart and the turbo kit costs about 7995.00. Pricey yes, but if I simply snag a tired motor out of a 1995 m3 and have it rebuilt (or do it myself) with some stronger parts and fit the kit on I would be in like flint and most likely have more power then the euro motor in the end.

This brings me to another question; does 400 hp belong on a 318ti? Obviously there would need be some serious rear end work, even for the euro motor some rear end and driveshafts would need be tossed in to the equation, not to mention suspension, roll cage, and wheels and tires. Is my logic flawed? I haven't done either swap or turbo kit but I do know both are expensive as hell to even think about let alone do. If I can't do it myself well, its going to be shop time and turbo cars, especially m3 turbo's tend to mean big bills.

Any suggestions?

Do the us m3 swap. Its well worth it. Its cheaper and the parts are available when they break down. If you have a obd1 318ti car stick with obd1 m3 motor. It will save you a whole lot of money. OBD2 318ti to ODB2 m3 motor. If you install the motor yourself. The swap shouldnt cost you more than $4500 dollars. I had mine professionaly installed and the total bill was $6300 thats including the cold air intake.

Well, what has me on the fence about the US m3 swap is the fact that the motor isn't as durable for hard driving as the Euro and I intend to do track time with my car.

If you are looking for the most power then I'd go with a 3.2 converted to OBD1 with the scer. If you are worried about the engines durability then just buy a beat up motor that has a good block and head and just rebuild the rest to your liking.

if money is not an issue then your best bet is a euro setup. Good luck

Yeah, the 3.2 is the best bet, 7k for the motor which is basically the turbo kit in a nutshell and it gives me more of a platform to expand.... either that or I should just buy an M3 Coupe and get it over with.

I have had the same thoughts(just get an m3 and screw the TI's) But honestly IMO the TI has a better looking rear end than any E36 M3. I think it would be better to have the TI with a swapped motor.

I second that. In addition, you have a better power/weight ratio compare to m3 coupe. If you stick with a stock 318ti Differential for now, you would definately roast an m3 from a dig. There not much out there that can touch m3 motor on a 318TI.

Erm, I meant the Z3 M Coupe. THe god of all non-e46 M cars. SOme like it, some don't but I consider I car I can buy for 25k that has rarity and uniqueness and is a car designed by enthusiasts for enthusiats a real treat.

Plus, I want the "What the **** was that" looks as I go down the road :2gun:.