5k Flash: Simple Schwartz Swap: 1987 BMW 325i w/M52 I-6

The BMW E30 3-series is one of those classic sedans that show up regularly on Daily Turismo because they are inexpensive and great to drive.  The stock engines are simple and lack the power of later BMW mills, so we are constantly tempted by the E30 with a later model engine shoved up front.  Find this 1987 BMW 325i w/ M52 inline-6 from an E36 328 for sale in Bowie, MD currently bidding on ebay for $1,000 reserve-not-met with 5 days to go.

This E30 has been the recipient of more than just an engine swap, it is also riding on a set of staggered 16 inch Borbet wheels and is low (but thankfully not stanced low) due to a set of Bilstein sport springs.  It also has modified bumper brackets to move the bumper closer to the body and give it a ‘Euro bumper’ look – which actually works quite well.

Powering this E30 is the M52B28, a 2.8 liter dual overhead cam engine that puts out 190 horsepower, a welcome increase over the stock M20 SOHC engine’s 169 horsepower.  It is attached to a ZF 5 speed manual transmission taken from an E36 M3.

The interior looks in decent shape in the few fuzzy pictures provided, but most E30s are starting to show their age…not like a daily driven Pinto, but you will notice commonly cracked dashes, labels on switches worn off, and general wear on original seats, carpets and headliners.

Overall this could be a decent driver for the cash; its updated engine swap will be welcome, but not radical and if done properly it should provide for another 100k miles of the ultimate driving machine experience.

See a better updated E30? email us here: tips@dailyturismo.com