Bigz

Funny seeing this thread as lately I've decided instead of buying a e36 m3 I'd try save a little longer and get a e46 m3, than after seeing a few e39 m5's that got me thinking again. But I've decided it would more than likely be a M3 because I've always been a fan of its looks and its newer plus its likely easier to mod, those are pretty much my reasons anyway.

Yes true to some extent but displacement will more than make up for that as it will flow a lot of exhaust gasses so lag wouldn't be an issue, with that setup it will have immediate response but will die off near the top, being a v8 probably won't matter much but I'd imagine some decent size turbos would really make it an animal. Twin GT30's anyone?

wow those are tiny turbos but looks good

Thanks everyone for the input. Precisely what my assumption was. Big HP GTR's and even bigger HP supras using factory getrag boxes. I am leaning towards the Evo as naturally it seems advantageous and its newer, but I think it prudent to do my research first considering my intent to modify. Although surprisingly there isn't always a big price difference between good condition evo's and earlier M3's here. If anyone else has something to add I'm all ears. Btw how true is it that the double vanos is unreliable?

Hi everyone new here and I'm ditching my current ride in favour of a e36 m3 btw I'm in Australia. Now I've been trying to research certain things between the earlier e36 and later 3.2 evo models. Here is basically the low down of my intentions. If the vehicle I purchase is low millage and healthy engine than I won't touch the internals at least for the initial stages of modifications, just a thicker head gasket with stronger head studs to suit turbocharging. Apparently the ecu on the earlier vehicles is modifiable but this is irrelevant as I intend to go a stand alone aftermarket ecu anyway. I hear the double vanos isn't as reliable would this be amplified by pushing the HP? Later 3.2 has coated rods and lighter pistons but does this mean the pistons would be more susceptible to detonation in my application? Things I'd like to know. How tough is the 5speed manual in comparison to the 6 speed getrag (which I know is very strong) Does the 3 litre have any advantages/ disadvantages over the 3.2 when in a forced induction application. Eg. stronger block etc. Sorry for all the questions but I'd really like to hear from people in the know as I've spent hours googling and come up with practically zero info.