Will a six speed box fit a 323i E46?

[WillE]

I have a 323 and the gearbox is starting to feel tired. I am happy on the tools to change it however I do a lot of motorway miles (live in Cambridge, have a girlfriend in Durham). So my question is, will a six speed box fit and from which car should I get it from?

Cheers Will

[rassi]

The 6 speed box from a 330i would be the obvious choice but whether it will bolt up directly I can't guarantee.

[WillE]

Thanks. It would be too easy, if it would slide in with no modifications.

[E30M3SE]

Would have though a six speeder from a 330 would mate to the block, as the block for a 323 and 330 are the same castings, just the internal dimensions, bores and components are different. You may need the clutch and flywheel from the 330 also.

ETA just checked flywheels are the same part.

Edited by E30M3SE on Friday 7th October 14:55

[Cemesis]

You'd need to check if the 6th gear is actually longer than the 5th on the 323i. Alot of people assume that 6 gears mean a longer ratio on the 6th gear but thats not normally the case.

Even if it is longer, with prices they way they are now for 323i's, is it worth upgrading the gearbox at all?

[WillE]

You make a good point, I did not realise just how expensive a gearbox was going to be. I have found this website which may be useful http://www.bokchoys.com/differential/GearRatios.ht... to some people.