Posted by Karl Koenig on January 27, 2000 at 17:21:52:
In Reply to: Engine for 1980 E-12 posted by John M. on January 27, 2000 at 14:14:06:
Any "big six" will bolt right in. That means any 5, 6, or 7 series car thru 91 except the 528e (which is the small six engine).
There are two main ways to do the swap.
1. Get a 3.5 long block and use everything else from your car.
2. Get a donor car and swap everything connected to the engine, including the Motronic engine control. The whole E28 eshaust will fit.
This question has been asked so often the details need to be in a FAQ. Let me see if I can still find my notes.
Bottom line is that adding 40HP and 50ft-lb torque makes a real difference. Having done it once, I'd do it again for my own car.
Karl Koenig
'81 528i (with 535 transplant)