Firstfives.org

chris hamman · Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2011 1:35 pm Post subject: e-12 in Georgia

So, here is the deal. I found a 76 blue e-12. My friend who has a shop ended up buying the car for dirt and only wanted the engine. TUrned out it needed a complete rebuild. Not much of a problem for him he also has a machine shop and full time rebuilder. He is putting the engine into a 320i. Blah blah blah.

So, I have this e-12 he gave to me sitting without engine and transmission or driveline. What to do? Best and cheapest for hp is an american GM v8. Checked with Bobby Thrash at Strictly BMW and putting in some bmw engine will run about 4 grand. Suspension will need complete re-do, new tires, But tis free. Body is pretty decent, will need a repaint. Rollup windows, no sunroof, bulge in hood. Will need to replace left front fender. Am I barking up an endless pit? Am also running out of space to work on these things. But hate to see the car parted when it can be brought back pretty easily. All your thoughts are appreciated.

I can find an inexpensive V8 and transmission here and probably a driveshaft but what about all the work to be done? Is there someplace where I can go so I dont re-invent the wheel?
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JoshInAtlanta · Joined: 17 May 2008 Posts: 212 Location: Atlanta, GA

It's all about whether or not YOU want to undertake the hassle of the project. Sure, you can find someone to do a conversion or a install another BMW motor into the car, but what will it all be worth to you at the end of the day? Unfortunately, there's not many people like us who are interested in these old cars anymore. I've bought/sold/traded GOOD running E12s for a few hundred bucks... makes it real tough to sell something custom that you actually have money tied up in.

I feel your pain about the projects... I'd love to start something new but not sure where I would find the space! You could always pass that E28 on to me if you need to free up a parking spot!
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1981 528i - 5 Speed

GripGreg · Joined: 06 Jan 2009 Posts: 1276 Location: Long Beach, Cal.

Like Josh said, it's up to you & how deep your pockets are. I don't particularly mind spending a lil more than the car's market value. But, for the V-8, it'll mean strengthening the differential mount & the half-shafts because of the torque. Then repositioned motor mounts & moving the power brake drum on the fire wall &,,,on & on & on. $$$?? Rolling Eyes

I would find a decent 3.5 motor & let your friend have fun. Check the FAQ section for installation.
Oh, in the 'Classified' section on the left, there might still be a 3.0 motor for sale. That might be a straight install with a lil more power!
Good luck & let us know what you do, these guys are itchin' to give good quality advice, and maybe some parts for a very reasonable price.
We also know some good websites instead of the "Stealership", which may not even have parts. Like bavauto.com & autopartswarehouse.com & more, just ask.
Oh yeah,,welcome,,,,Greg

chrishamman · Joined: 07 May 2011 Posts: 60 Location: Georgia

Thanks for the information. The blue e-12 will probably be parted. I gave the body back to my friend who will do with it whatever. As for Josh, havent seen you at the caffeine and octane meetups. Been too busy?

We bought out north of gainesville and moved in February. Not many bmw types out here. Still go back to sugar hill where the white e-12 is parked at my friends shop. Sorting some electrical issues but hope to have it at the C&O and up on this site soon. Want to wait until it is more presentable.

Bought some 15 inch rims for the 12 but ended putting them on the m535. Will stay with r70 14's and bottle caps. Got some heavier anti sways from david harrison. Hope to get it handling like the e-28.

I do think from time to time about passing on the M535. I am in pretty deep in out of pocket but want it to go to someone who will really take care of it. It is the finest handling car I have ever owned I think. Guess I owned about 50 foreign and domestic and the foreign was mostly early english. Not much compared the the later stuff.

JoshInAtlanta · Joined: 17 May 2008 Posts: 212 Location: Atlanta, GA

Probably the spare sways I sold him a couple years ago. Been very busy... Plus I got into another car hobby that's been consuming my time and money...
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1981 528i - 5 Speed

chrishamman · Joined: 07 May 2011 Posts: 60 Location: Georgia

What are you working on? There are a bunch of old guys who get together once a month, eat lunch then go look at someones collection. Lots of stuff to see around atlanta. Its more about making friends.

JoshInAtlanta · Joined: 17 May 2008 Posts: 212 Location: Atlanta, GA

Besides the BMW (which still gets a little action, like the "new" wheels this past weekend) and the low-mileage Lincoln, my cousin got me into off-road events... so I now have a 2012 Wrangler that has been keeping me occupied. 3 toy cars is more than any boy can ask for! It's definitely a riot in the making. I was pleased this weekend when the two oldies fired up without any trouble, that's an achievement on it's own!

Are they still having the events once a month? I'd like to get back in on it sometime. And also, keep me posted about that E28. I know a good home for it if you decide to let it go...
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1981 528i - 5 Speed

chrishamman · Joined: 07 May 2011 Posts: 60 Location: Georgia

Is the picture of your e-12 with the new rims? And funny you would say wrangler. I too have developed an interest in an older cj5 or cj7. Hard to find a good one with no rust issues without a total restoration and very large price tag.

JoshInAtlanta · Joined: 17 May 2008 Posts: 212 Location: Atlanta, GA

No, I really need to update my pictures! I picked up a set of staggered Alpinas from a friend and fellow 5er. I didn't finish getting them on the car until 10ish Saturday night and I haven't had time since then to get it back out of the garage for pictures. Hopefully this weekend I can get some.
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1981 528i - 5 Speed