M42 Engine options

[Gravy]

I have an E36 318is and do not drive it too often (it's the other halfs), however, I did 500 miles on the weekend and really enjoyed it and do drive it when I can.

I think I am right in saying that you can't do much to the M42 unit without great, and probably pointless expenditure, but I thought I would ask anyway to see if there are some basic things I could do just to make it feel a little less breathless.

The main bugbear is low down torque, or a total lack off. Everything happens at the top end which is fun but makes it awkward to drive smoothly on varied road types.

I know you can go down the route of FI but that is pricey. I'm after some bang for your buck, even if it is a case of fitting a freer flowing exhaust (so long as it isn't barry boy style) or getting it live remapped, or using some lighter engine internals.

Anyone got any M42 experiences or is it really better to leave it and move to the next car as and when?

[sniff diesel]

With a nice heat sheilded induction kit, free-er flowing exhaust and a re-map you should gain a few bhp. You can also remove the viscous coupled fan and replace it with an electric one to gain a couple of bhp and make the engine rev more freely (it reduces the flywheel effect)

[richyb]

I'd say its money down the drain. Put the cash towards something with a bigger engine. You can get a 330i for peanuts now or even better have a look at the BMW V8s in the 5 and 7. You'll get bugger all performance increases without spending serious cash.

[Oi_Oi_Savaloy]

Supercharge it.

I'm some people have been using Eaton superchargers (check ebay) from the 1st generation bmw Mini's to good effect.

[disco!!!!]

you would most likely be better buying a 323/325/328 and starting from there they use roughly the same amount of fuel and is a better starting block for modifying
and there is that fantastic 6 cylinder sound

[Gravy]

Me thinks I agree with the general sentiments on the thread. I shall just leave it as is.

[LeightonBuzzard]

Would probably cost the same money to put a silky smooth six in it