E36 Engine upgrade help - BMW Forum

spicer · 10-12-2007, 09:39 AM

Hi guys, I have a 1992 318i sedan, looking to add more power, especially on the low end of the tach. Not really familiar with my options, as I have only recently been converted from Japanese FWD's. I was offered an engine, it's got an m52 (2.3) block and m50 (2.5) head... I don't know anything else about the engine other then the owner claims it has 120k on it and displaces 2.7l, also claims it puts down 175hp. I'm not sure if it's an OBDI or II head, or if there is a difference on these cars. I might have access to a complete 2.8l setup, which would put me into OBDII.
Just wondering what options I have, I am not opposed to going in a different direction, but would ideally like to stay away from forced induction, just for reliability and driveability. although there is a small turbo sitting in my garage...

I'll be doing the work myself (other then machining if nec.) and have access to a full garage and tool set. So I'm not afraid to tackle anything really...

ragdollop · 10-25-2007, 05:48 PM

I would stay with an obdI engine. It would be the easiest to drop in.

94BMW325i · 10-25-2007, 07:52 PM

not much worse to make the M52 to OBD 1.

dannyb · 10-26-2007, 07:25 AM

M52 w/ S52 cams converted to OBD I... it would be the best of both worlds

whosyadadie01 · 10-26-2007, 11:03 PM

id go with the obd2

bimmerguy82 · 10-28-2007, 02:36 AM

why would want to be obdII? obdI is much less restrictive on emissions and mods.

whosyadadie01 · 10-28-2007, 12:28 PM

ive just had bad experiences with the whole OBDI system ... and my OBDII hasnt let me down yet .... but you are rite you can get more from OBDI

spicer · 10-29-2007, 07:56 AM

Update:
Just bought a 94 325i... m50 build up & transplant this winter.
I'll keep you posted.

bimmerguy82 · 10-29-2007, 09:08 AM

cool. pics or

ragdollop · 10-30-2007, 09:29 PM

Awesome! Just dont get carried away like I did, cause it gets expensive! haha

dannyb · 10-31-2007, 07:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by joshsanders82

cool. pics or

+1

saltshaker185 · 11-09-2007, 07:10 PM

did you ever conciter supercharging the 318? :\ m3 power and 318 weight... id look into it and see if it is more friendly to your pocket then what you had in mind...

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