e36 325i to Auto M3 engine

[dandapalm]

Hi, I have some spare parts lying around and a great shell 325i coupe. I would like to make a really grand tourer and just think the stock e36 vanos 2.5 is a little flat, and yes it has the ZF 5 speed auto transmission.

My question is this.

I had an insurance claim for my previously stolen and overrevved M3 ( that has since been sold) and at the time I purchased a 3.0 e36 M3 engine complete with loom and ecu etc.

Can this be fitted and does anybody know the likely limits of this gearbox.

As I dont want to fit a 5 speed manual in this car , what does anyone think about the conversion??

The 325i is immaculate and is in genuine ""why isnt mine in that good a condition" so I am not keen on trading or updating.


Anyway, I am just throwing it out there or I will look at selling engine etc.

Cheers and let me know your thoughts.

My other toy is a 1973 GTR XU1 with 45mm webers, so I do get my manual fix when i need it , so dont can me immediately guys.

Thanks for your thoughts !!!

[BMWE36325i]

i pretty sure the gear box won't fit the m3 engine. i did the exact same conversion except i went with the manual. it was 325i into a s50b30 with the 5 speed manual. everything fits fine except i used the rear sub frame from the m3 as its different from the standard 3 series.

a smg from a later m3 might fit but then i wouldn't know how you would get it to work as i'm guessing there would be some software involved.

[dandapalm]

Thanks for that reply, by rear sub frame, do you mean gearbox support?

Why I thought the ZF 5 speed auto may fit, was that the US versions although NON euro engines, fitted that gearbox and I have a gun mechanic mate, who can really beef up autos for track and strip, so I was going to run with that idea. But thanks for your thoughts.......nice ride too!!!

[BMWE36325i]

no not the gear box, the rear axle/diff part.

thanks for the comments