Re: E36 engine swap
Well, from 318 to up, alot of electronics, wiring, must be changed. You need the 325s waterpump, atlernator, etc etc. Pretty much everything must be replaced of that of the 325. Not to mention the all important ECU as well. Its as good as going for a halfcut.
Halfcut we're talking about thousands here. I remember a 328 halfcut is about 7k or more? 325 probably 5k or more. And ALL this, DOES NOT include labour in as well. Which will probably be ANOTHER 3-5k. All in all, not worth it at all. Might as well sell your 318 and get a 325 instead.
Thus, the best option i see for us 318, 318iS, is to like bro halcrontech above. Stroke the engine, supercharged. You'll find yourself probably even lesser cost then the engine swap, but even higher power gained. Of course, you wont engine the top end cause thats when CC comes in. But then again i dont think you're looking to cruise at 250km/h in singapore anyway.
I've considered the half cut approach. No point. Unless something happens to the scrap market, and everything gets way cheaper. Oh yes, there is the option of Overseas engines. Which are somehow i dont know why way cheaper then here. But you run the risk of shipping and warrenty. But thats an entirely different story there.
I know you're feeling as mind farked as me. Don't worry. There are many in the same position. Consider wisely, and then proceed. Market no good, don't embark on a journey which you are not sure if you can finish. Remember, half-fark completed cars run the highest risk of breakdowns and accidents.
2 cents my friend
