Whats the best engine on the e30

[raseeda green]

Hi All,

can any one tell us what the best engine (standard ) run the best on the e30?

[Jeroen]

I guess that depends what you use the car for and what you like! I guess the most common answer would be 325i as it's a strong, smooth and flexible engine performing well in any rev range and it makes the E30 even more quiet than most modern day cars. The 320i is just as quiet but lacks power imho. The 325e-327e is a wonderful engine when it comes to bottom end torque and fuel economy so a great cruiser but it's nowhere near as strong as the 325i.

The 4 cilinder engines are reliable and good, but louder and of course slower. Exception to the rule is the 318iS 16 valve unit that is a sweet revver and not slow with 140 horses.

And then there's that other 4 pot called S14 you find in the M3. Loud and not too strong in the lower rev range, but because of the lower engine weight compared to the 6 pots and because of a better weight distribution (engine further back than the 6 cil) the balance, sharp steering and high rev power makes this the best handling and most sporty E30 and even one of the best handling cars ever.

Take your pick!

[raseeda green]

Thank you, jeroen

I've always loved the e30 and I hope to get one this year, maybe 320, or 325, and also can you tell me if the bumpers are changeable between the pre face lift and newer one. As I hope to get the newer one but like the chrome bumpers on the older one? Please help if you can!

[Jeroen]

I've people swapping those so yes that must be possible, but I have no experience there. What I encounter most times are facelift bumpers on an earlier model. When you're after one:get the one you really want, get it right the first time or you'll spend more money getting there, I'd say 325i and in the best condition you can afford. It'll pay off over time. Keep us posted!