if E46 M3 engine fits M coupe/roadster, will M coupe eng fit e36

[DavidOrtiz]

i don't know why it hasn't been done yet.
all M 3 series use the same subframe so the mounting holes are close to m50's holes. what i mean is the M coupe with the new s54 engine fits to the same subframe as the s50us fit to. will the engine bolt to an m50 transmition? what other problems would arise?

[Philer]

I remember a while back someone said that Dinan tried but it didn't work. I dont think the block is that much different from the old evo 3.2 engine which you can put into a e36.

[Alex Mc]

The problem isn't the physical dimensions, it's the wiring adapting, which is next to impossible. You'd have to swap in every single part because of the integration of electronics.. it would be one hell of a pricey swap!

[ayton]

I talked about this a while back ....and the general concensus is it could be done but the wiring is the problem! the S54 is drive by wire