2001 Bmw 325i Eventually Plan On Swapping Out Engine E46 M3 Once Funds

2001 BMW 325I
142,000 MILES
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JEREMYM1993
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I eventually plan on swapping out my engine for an E46 M3 engine once I have the funds. Do I need to swap out my tranny as well or can I keep it automatic? Is this an easy swap for a mechanic since its still an E46? What am I looking at price wise for parts and labor?
Mar 20, 2013 at 5:34 AM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 9,606 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
I would steer you away from that if possible, too many things to go wrong in the swap and the E46 M3 motor will not accept an automatic transmission from the 325 due to the electronic incompatibility. I would consider enhancements to your present car rather than replacement of the engine, the M54 motor comes in several displacements and can be tuned to make excellent streetable power at a considerably lower out of pocket expense.
Mar 20, 2013 at 2:25 PM
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