Looking for a 1991 e30 M42

[feunfer]

I'm considering one of these cars because it seems unique, collectible perhaps, and I've heard a lot of good about the M42 engine.

My overall question is, will I be disappointed with the lack of power (137 HP/127 lb-ft) even though this car is quite light?  

Would like to hear from anyone concerning this.  Also would appreciate any tips in making this purchase (e.g., profile gasket, etc.

Many thanks,
Steve

[tntempest]

What have you driven before on a daily basis is the main question?  

I have a Modified G8 Gt with 400hp at the flywheel and I still have fun with the the 91 318IS 5 speed.  It moves pretty good in first and second.  With a chip and some other things done it is not much slower than a 1988 325IS I used to have.  Also it gets much better mpg than the 325is.  I have a 95 miata with a 1.8 with 130+ hp and that car is 400 pounds lighter but it seems slower than the 318IS.  

Yes we all want more power and I plan on putting either an M3 motor or a LS motor when my m42 goes, but it is still a very fun smooth running 4.

My suggestion from a long line of restorations, is buy the nicest car you can afford.  A fixer upper will cost wayyyyyy much more in the long run.   My car now has around 200k and passed emissions with the lowest score of any car I have ever seen.   So if you find a nice mileage car do not give up on it, one with 110,000 that needs everything is not a good deal.

[flyinglizard]

Slow and expensive.  Just doing the head gasket is about 1000$ and the car is only worth maybe 2000$
 They do drive nice, have a nice crisp turn in.  They will go maybe 250K with synthetic oils at about 30mpg.  32 if you change the diff toa 3.9 or 3.67. Maybe.  IMHO. Mike Ogren/Protech Racing   I have one to trade for a C4 Vette Conv.

[Romrog318is]

well to start its 144 BHP not 137..
and mine is chipped (Mark-D)
with a few little other things done with a 373 LSD
i think my dyno was 163.3 (if i remember correctly)
heres a litte vid of mine
http://s123.photobucket.com/albums/o296/j-dub285/?action=view¤t=poop048.flv

but as for the lack of power it is SO much fun to drive and 130 MPH isnt the hardest thing to do in mine

but my M42 is leaving the car for an M52B28

[huangdong04]

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